Hypersonic Missile Race: The Super Weapon Traveling at 2 Miles Per Second

The global competition for the development of hypersonic missiles is intensifying, with Russia and China leading the way. These missiles, capable of traveling at speeds exceeding Mach 5, are considered to be game-changers in the balance of power.

China showcased its DF-17s at a military parade in 2019, marking a new era in the competition. Russia has used the war in Ukraine as a testing ground for new missiles, such as the Oreshnik, capable of reaching Mach 10. The United States is seeking to close the gap.

Other countries, including Israel, Iran, North Korea, France, and Japan, are also investing in hypersonic missile technology. The US has unveiled the Dark Eagle hypersonic missile.

A hypersonic missile must be fast and agile, capable of changing course unpredictably. It travels at speeds of Mach 5 or greater. The Russian Avangard is reported to reach Mach 27.

There are two main categories: boost-glide vehicles and hypersonic cruise missiles. They can carry conventional or nuclear warheads and are launched from aircraft, ships, or land-based platforms.