Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Changes from December 1, 2020 to April 26, 2021

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Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues
~~December 1, 2020~~April 26, 2021
for Congress
Kelley M. Sayler
The United States has actively pursued the development of hypersonic weapons— The United States has actively pursued the development of hypersonic weapons—
Analyst in Advanced Analyst in Advanced
maneuvering weapons that fly at speeds of at least Mach 5—as a part of its conventional maneuvering weapons that fly at speeds of at least Mach 5—as a part of its conventional
Technology and Global Technology and Global
prompt global strike program since the early 2000s. In recent years, the United States prompt global strike program since the early 2000s. In recent years, the United States
Security Security
has focused such efforts on developing hypersonic glide vehicles, which are launched has focused such efforts on developing hypersonic glide vehicles, which are launched

from a rocket before gliding to a target, and hypersonic cruise missiles, which are from a rocket before gliding to a target, and hypersonic cruise missiles, which are

powered by high-speed, air-breathing engines during flight. As Vice Chairman of the powered by high-speed, air-breathing engines during flight. As Vice Chairman of the
Joint Chiefs of Staff and former Commander of U.S. Strategic Command General John Hyten has stated, these Joint Chiefs of Staff and former Commander of U.S. Strategic Command General John Hyten has stated, these
weapons could enable “responsive, long-range, strike options against distant, defended, and/or time-critical weapons could enable “responsive, long-range, strike options against distant, defended, and/or time-critical
threats [such as road-mobile missiles] when other forces are unavailable, denied access, or not preferred.” Critics, threats [such as road-mobile missiles] when other forces are unavailable, denied access, or not preferred.” Critics,
on the other hand, contend that hypersonic weapons lack defined mission requirements, contribute little to U.S. on the other hand, contend that hypersonic weapons lack defined mission requirements, contribute little to U.S.
military capability, and are unnecessary for deterrence. military capability, and are unnecessary for deterrence.
Funding for hypersonic weapons has been relatively restrained in the past; however, both the Pentagon and Funding for hypersonic weapons has been relatively restrained in the past; however, both the Pentagon and
Congress have shown a growing interest in pursuing the development and near-term deployment of hypersonic Congress have shown a growing interest in pursuing the development and near-term deployment of hypersonic
systems. This is due, in part, to the growing interest in these technologies in Russia and China, both of which have systems. This is due, in part, to the growing interest in these technologies in Russia and China, both of which have
a number of hypersonic weapons programs and a number of hypersonic weapons programs and ~~are expected to field an~~have likely fielded operational hypersonic glide operational hypersonic glide ~~vehicle~~vehicles——
potentially armed with nuclear warheadspotentially armed with nuclear warheads~~—as early as 2020~~. Most U.S. hypersonic weapons, in contrast to those in . Most U.S. hypersonic weapons, in contrast to those in
Russia and China, are not being designed for use with a nuclear warhead. As a result, U.S. hypersonic weapons Russia and China, are not being designed for use with a nuclear warhead. As a result, U.S. hypersonic weapons
will likely require greater accuracy and will be more technically challenging to develop than nuclear-armed will likely require greater accuracy and will be more technically challenging to develop than nuclear-armed
Chinese and Russian systems. Chinese and Russian systems.
The Pentagon’s FY2021 budget request for all hypersonic-related research is $3.2 billion—up from $2.6 billion in The Pentagon’s FY2021 budget request for all hypersonic-related research is $3.2 billion—up from $2.6 billion in
the FY2020 request—including $206.8 million for hypersonic defense programs. At present, the Department of the FY2020 request—including $206.8 million for hypersonic defense programs. At present, the Department of
Defense (DOD) has not established any programs of record for hypersonic weapons, suggesting that it may not Defense (DOD) has not established any programs of record for hypersonic weapons, suggesting that it may not
have approved either requirements for the systems or long-term funding plans. Indeed, as Assistant Director for have approved either requirements for the systems or long-term funding plans. Indeed, as Assistant Director for
Hypersonics (Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering) Mike White has stated, Hypersonics (Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering) Mike White has stated,
DOD has not yet made a decision to acquire hypersonic weapons and is instead developing prototypes to assist in DOD has not yet made a decision to acquire hypersonic weapons and is instead developing prototypes to assist in
the evaluation of potential weapon system concepts and mission sets. the evaluation of potential weapon system concepts and mission sets.
As Congress reviews the Pentagon’s plans for U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, it might consider questions As Congress reviews the Pentagon’s plans for U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, it might consider questions
about the rationale for hypersonic weapons, their expected costs, and their implications for strategic stability and about the rationale for hypersonic weapons, their expected costs, and their implications for strategic stability and
arms control. Potential questions include the following: arms control. Potential questions include the following:
 What mission(s) will hypersonic weapons be used for? Are hypersonic weapons the most cost-  What mission(s) will hypersonic weapons be used for? Are hypersonic weapons the most cost-
effective means of executing these potential missions? How will they be incorporated into joint effective means of executing these potential missions? How will they be incorporated into joint
operational doctrine and concepts? operational doctrine and concepts?
 Given the lack of defined mission requirements for hypersonic weapons, how should Congress  Given the lack of defined mission requirements for hypersonic weapons, how should Congress
evaluate funding requests for hypersonic weapons programs or the balance of funding requests evaluate funding requests for hypersonic weapons programs or the balance of funding requests
for hypersonic weapons programs, enabling technologies, and supporting test infrastructure? Is an for hypersonic weapons programs, enabling technologies, and supporting test infrastructure? Is an
acceleration of research on hypersonic weapons, enabling technologies, or hypersonic missile acceleration of research on hypersonic weapons, enabling technologies, or hypersonic missile
defense options both necessary and technologically feasible? defense options both necessary and technologically feasible?
 How, if at all, will the fielding of hypersonic weapons affect strategic stability?  How, if at all, will the fielding of hypersonic weapons affect strategic stability?
 Is there a need for risk-mitigation measures, such as expanding New START, negotiating new  Is there a need for risk-mitigation measures, such as expanding New START, negotiating new
multilateral arms control agreements, or undertaking transparency and confidence-building multilateral arms control agreements, or undertaking transparency and confidence-building
activities? activities?

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Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Introduction
The United States has actively pursued the development of hypersonic weapons as a part of its The United States has actively pursued the development of hypersonic weapons as a part of its
conventional prompt global strike (CPGS) program since the early 2000s.1 In recent years, it has conventional prompt global strike (CPGS) program since the early 2000s.1 In recent years, it has
focused such efforts on hypersonic glide vehicles and hypersonic cruise missiles with shorter and focused such efforts on hypersonic glide vehicles and hypersonic cruise missiles with shorter and
intermediate ranges for use in regional conflicts. Although funding for these programs has been intermediate ranges for use in regional conflicts. Although funding for these programs has been
relatively restrained in the past, both the Pentagon and Congress have shown a growing interest in relatively restrained in the past, both the Pentagon and Congress have shown a growing interest in
pursuing the development and near-term deployment of hypersonic systems. This is due, in part, pursuing the development and near-term deployment of hypersonic systems. This is due, in part,
to the growing interest in these technologies in Russia and China, leading to a heightened focus in to the growing interest in these technologies in Russia and China, leading to a heightened focus in
the United States on the strategic threat posed by hypersonic flight. Open-source reporting the United States on the strategic threat posed by hypersonic flight. Open-source reporting
indicates that both China and Russia have conducted numerous successful tests of hypersonic indicates that both China and Russia have conducted numerous successful tests of hypersonic
glide vehiclesglide vehicles~~, and both are expected to field an operational capability as early as 2020~~ and likely fielded an operational capability. .
Experts disagree on the potential impact of competitor hypersonic weapons on both strategic Experts disagree on the potential impact of competitor hypersonic weapons on both strategic
stability and the U.S. military’s competitive advantage. Nevertheless, former Under Secretary of stability and the U.S. military’s competitive advantage. Nevertheless, former Under Secretary of
Defense for Research and Engineering (USD[R&E]) Michael Griffin has testified to Congress Defense for Research and Engineering (USD[R&E]) Michael Griffin has testified to Congress
that the United States does not “have systems which can hold [China and Russia] at risk in a that the United States does not “have systems which can hold [China and Russia] at risk in a
corresponding manner, and we don’t have defenses against [their] systems.”2 Although the John corresponding manner, and we don’t have defenses against [their] systems.”2 Although the John
S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (FY2019 NDAA, P.L. 115-S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (FY2019 NDAA, P.L. 115-
232) accelerated the development of hypersonic weapons, which USD(R&E) identifies as a 232) accelerated the development of hypersonic weapons, which USD(R&E) identifies as a
priority research and development area, the United States is unlikely to field an operational priority research and development area, the United States is unlikely to field an operational
system before 2023. However, most U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, in contrast to those in system before 2023. However, most U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, in contrast to those in
Russia and China, are not being designed for use with a nuclear warhead.3 As a result, U.S. Russia and China, are not being designed for use with a nuclear warhead.3 As a result, U.S.
hypersonic weapons will likely require greater accuracy and will be more technically challenging hypersonic weapons will likely require greater accuracy and will be more technically challenging
to develop than nuclear-armed Chinese and Russian systems. to develop than nuclear-armed Chinese and Russian systems.
In addition to accelerating development of hypersonic weapons, Section 247 of the FY2019 In addition to accelerating development of hypersonic weapons, Section 247 of the FY2019
NDAA required that the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Director of the Defense NDAA required that the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Director of the Defense
Intelligence Agency, produce a classified assessment of U.S. and adversary hypersonic weapons Intelligence Agency, produce a classified assessment of U.S. and adversary hypersonic weapons
programs, to include the following elements: programs, to include the following elements:
(1) An evaluation of spending by the United States and adversaries on such technology. (1) An evaluation of spending by the United States and adversaries on such technology.
(2) An evaluation of the quantity and quality of research on such technology. (2) An evaluation of the quantity and quality of research on such technology.
(3) An evaluation of the test infrastructure and workforce supporting such technology. (3) An evaluation of the test infrastructure and workforce supporting such technology.
(4) An assessment of the technological progress of the United States and adversaries on (4) An assessment of the technological progress of the United States and adversaries on
such technology. such technology.
(5) Descriptions of timelines for operational deployment of such technology. (5) Descriptions of timelines for operational deployment of such technology.

1 For details, see CRS Report R41464, 1 For details, see CRS Report R41464, Conventional Prompt Global Strike and Long-Range Ballistic Missiles:
Background and Issues, by Amy F. Woolf. , by Amy F. Woolf.
2 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of Michael Griffin,” Hearing on New 2 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of Michael Griffin,” Hearing on New
Technologies to Meet Emerging Threats, April 18, 2018, https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/18-Technologies to Meet Emerging Threats, April 18, 2018, https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/18-
40_04-18-18.pdf. 40_04-18-18.pdf.
3 Until recently, the United States was not believed to be considering the development of nuclear-armed hypersonic 3 Until recently, the United States was not believed to be considering the development of nuclear-armed hypersonic
weapons; however, a since-revoked Air Force solicitation sought ideas for a “thermal protection system that can weapons; however, a since-revoked Air Force solicitation sought ideas for a “thermal protection system that can
support [a] hypersonic glide to ICBM ranges.” Senior defense officials responded to news reports of the revocation, support [a] hypersonic glide to ICBM ranges.” Senior defense officials responded to news reports of the revocation,
stating that DOD “remains committed to non-nuclear role for hypersonics.” See Steve Trimble, “USAF Errantly stating that DOD “remains committed to non-nuclear role for hypersonics.” See Steve Trimble, “USAF Errantly
Reveals Research on ICBM-Range Hypersonic Glide Vehicle,” Aviation Week, August 18, 2020, Reveals Research on ICBM-Range Hypersonic Glide Vehicle,” Aviation Week, August 18, 2020,
https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/missile-defense-weapons/usaf-errantly-reveals-research-icbm-range-https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/missile-defense-weapons/usaf-errantly-reveals-research-icbm-range-
hypersonic-glide. hypersonic-glide.
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(6) An assessment of the intent or willingness of adversaries to use such technology.4 (6) An assessment of the intent or willingness of adversaries to use such technology.4
This report was delivered to Congress in July 2019. Similarly, Section 1689 of the FY2019 This report was delivered to Congress in July 2019. Similarly, Section 1689 of the FY2019
NDAA requires the Director of the Missile Defense Agency to produce a report on “how NDAA requires the Director of the Missile Defense Agency to produce a report on “how
hypersonic missile defense can be accelerated to meet emerging hypersonic threats.”5 The hypersonic missile defense can be accelerated to meet emerging hypersonic threats.”5 The
findings of these reports could hold implications for congressional authorizations, appropriations, findings of these reports could hold implications for congressional authorizations, appropriations,
and oversight. and oversight.
The following report reviews the hypersonic weapons programs in the United States, Russia, and The following report reviews the hypersonic weapons programs in the United States, Russia, and
China, providing information on the programs and infrastructure in each nation, based on China, providing information on the programs and infrastructure in each nation, based on
unclassified sources. It also provides a brief summary of the state of global hypersonic weapons unclassified sources. It also provides a brief summary of the state of global hypersonic weapons
research development. It concludes with a discussion of the issues that Congress might address as research development. It concludes with a discussion of the issues that Congress might address as
it considers DOD’s funding requests for U.S. hypersonic technology programs. it considers DOD’s funding requests for U.S. hypersonic technology programs.
Background
Several countries are developing hypersonic weapons, which fly at speeds of at least Mach 5 (five Several countries are developing hypersonic weapons, which fly at speeds of at least Mach 5 (five
times the speed of sound)times the speed of sound)~~, but none have yet introduced them into their operational military~~
~~forces~~.6 There are two primary categories of hypersonic weapons.6 There are two primary categories of hypersonic weapons:
  Hypersonic glide vehicles (HGV) are launched from a rocket before gliding to a are launched from a rocket before gliding to a
target.7 target.7
  Hypersonic cruise missiles are powered by high-speed, air-breathing engines, or are powered by high-speed, air-breathing engines, or
“scramjets,” after acquiring their target. “scramjets,” after acquiring their target.
Unlike ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons do not follow a ballistic trajectory and can Unlike ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons do not follow a ballistic trajectory and can
maneuver en route to their destination. As Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former maneuver en route to their destination. As Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former
Commander of U.S. Strategic Command General John Hyten has stated, hypersonic weapons Commander of U.S. Strategic Command General John Hyten has stated, hypersonic weapons
could enable “responsive, long-range, strike options against distant, defended, and/or time-critical could enable “responsive, long-range, strike options against distant, defended, and/or time-critical
threats [such as road-mobile missiles] when other forces are unavailable, denied access, or not threats [such as road-mobile missiles] when other forces are unavailable, denied access, or not
preferred.”8 Conventional hypersonic weapons use only kinetic energy—energy derived from preferred.”8 Conventional hypersonic weapons use only kinetic energy—energy derived from
motion—to destroy unhardened targets or, potentially, underground facilities.9 motion—to destroy unhardened targets or, potentially, underground facilities.9
Hypersonic weapons could challenge detection and defense due to their speed, maneuverability, Hypersonic weapons could challenge detection and defense due to their speed, maneuverability,
and low altitude of flight.10 For example, terrestrial-based radar cannot detect hypersonic and low altitude of flight.10 For example, terrestrial-based radar cannot detect hypersonic
weapons until late in the weapon’s flight.11weapons until late in the weapon’s flight.11 Figure 1 depicts the differences in terrestrial-based depicts the differences in terrestrial-based
radar detection timelines for ballistic missiles versus hypersonic glide vehicles. radar detection timelines for ballistic missiles versus hypersonic glide vehicles.

4 P.L. 115-232, Section 2, Division A, Title II, §247. 4 P.L. 115-232, Section 2, Division A, Title II, §247.
5 P.L. 115-232, Section 2, Division A, Title XVI, §1689. 5 P.L. 115-232, Section 2, Division A, Title XVI, §1689.
6 6 ~~The~~At a minimum, the United States, Russia, China, Australia, India, France, and Germany are developing hypersonic weapons United States, Russia, China, Australia, India, France, and Germany are developing hypersonic weapons
technology. See Richard H. Speier et al., technology. See Richard H. Speier et al., Hypersonic Missile Proliferation: Hindering the Spread of a New Class of
Weapons, RAND Corporation, 2017, https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR2137.html. , RAND Corporation, 2017, https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR2137.html.
7 When HGVs are mated with their rocket booster, the resulting weapon system is often referred to as a hypersonic 7 When HGVs are mated with their rocket booster, the resulting weapon system is often referred to as a hypersonic
boost-glide weapon. boost-glide weapon.
8 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of John E. Hyten,” Hearing on United States 8 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of John E. Hyten,” Hearing on United States
Strategic Command and United States Northern Command, February 26, 2019, https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/Strategic Command and United States Northern Command, February 26, 2019, https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/
imo/media/doc/Hyten_02-26-19.pdf. imo/media/doc/Hyten_02-26-19.pdf.
9 Richard H. Speier et al., 9 Richard H. Speier et al., Hypersonic Missile Proliferation: Hindering the Spread of a New Class of Weapons, p. 13. , p. 13.
10 See Department of Defense, 10 See Department of Defense, 2019 Missile Defense Review, https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Interactive/2018/11-, https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Interactive/2018/11-
2019-Missile-Defense-Review/The%202019%20MDR_Executive%20Summary.pdf. 2019-Missile-Defense-Review/The%202019%20MDR_Executive%20Summary.pdf.
11 Richard H. Speier et al., 11 Richard H. Speier et al., Hypersonic Missile Proliferation: Hindering the Spread of a New Class of Weapons. .
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Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Figure 1. Terrestrial-Based Detection of Ballistic Missiles vs.
Hypersonic Glide Vehicles

Source: CRS image based on an image in “Gliding missiles that fly faster than Mach 5 are coming,” CRS image based on an image in “Gliding missiles that fly faster than Mach 5 are coming,” The
Economist, April 6, 2019, https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2019/04/06/gliding-missiles-that-fly-, April 6, 2019, https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2019/04/06/gliding-missiles-that-fly-
faster-than-mach-5-are-coming. faster-than-mach-5-are-coming.
This delayed detection compresses the timeline for This delayed detection compresses the timeline for ~~decision-makers~~decisionmakers assessing their response assessing their response
options and for a defensive system to intercept the attacking weapon—potentially permitting only options and for a defensive system to intercept the attacking weapon—potentially permitting only
a single intercept attempt.12 a single intercept attempt.12
Furthermore, U.S. defense officials have stated that both terrestrial- and current space-based Furthermore, U.S. defense officials have stated that both terrestrial- and current space-based
sensor architectures are insufficient to detect and track hypersonic weapons, with former sensor architectures are insufficient to detect and track hypersonic weapons, with former
USD(R&E) Griffin noting that “hypersonic targets are 10 to 20 times dimmer than what the U.S. USD(R&E) Griffin noting that “hypersonic targets are 10 to 20 times dimmer than what the U.S.
normally tracks by satellites in geostationary orbit.”13 Some analysts have suggested that space-normally tracks by satellites in geostationary orbit.”13 Some analysts have suggested that space-
based sensor layers—integrated with tracking and fire-control systems to direct high-performance based sensor layers—integrated with tracking and fire-control systems to direct high-performance
interceptors or directed energy weapons—could theoretically present viable options for defending interceptors or directed energy weapons—could theoretically present viable options for defending
against hypersonic weapons in the future.14 Indeed, the against hypersonic weapons in the future.14 Indeed, the 2019 Missile Defense Review notes that notes that
“such sensors take advantage of the large area viewable from space for improved tracking and “such sensors take advantage of the large area viewable from space for improved tracking and
potentially targeting of advanced threats, including HGVs and hypersonic cruise missiles.”15 potentially targeting of advanced threats, including HGVs and hypersonic cruise missiles.”15
Other analysts have questioned the affordability, technological feasibility, and/or utility of wide- Other analysts have questioned the affordability, technological feasibility, and/or utility of wide-
area hypersonic weapons defense.16 As physicist and nuclear expert James Acton explains, “point-area hypersonic weapons defense.16 As physicist and nuclear expert James Acton explains, “point-
defense systems, and particularly [Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)], could very defense systems, and particularly [Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)], could very
plausibly be adapted to deal with hypersonic missiles. The disadvantage of those systems is that plausibly be adapted to deal with hypersonic missiles. The disadvantage of those systems is that
they can only defend small areas. To defend the whole of the continental United States, you they can only defend small areas. To defend the whole of the continental United States, you

12 Bradley Perrett et al., “U.S. Navy sees Chinese HGV as part of Wider Threat,” 12 Bradley Perrett et al., “U.S. Navy sees Chinese HGV as part of Wider Threat,” Aviation Week, January 27, 2014. , January 27, 2014.
13 David Vergun, “DOD Scaling Up Effort to Develop Hypersonics,” 13 David Vergun, “DOD Scaling Up Effort to Develop Hypersonics,” DoD News, December 13, 2018, , December 13, 2018,
https://dod.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1712954/dod-scaling-up-effort-to-develop-hypersonics/; see also https://dod.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1712954/dod-scaling-up-effort-to-develop-hypersonics/; see also
“Testimony of Michael Griffin”; and “Testimony of John E. Hyten.” “Testimony of Michael Griffin”; and “Testimony of John E. Hyten.”
14 “Testimony of Michael Griffin”; and “Testimony of John E. Hyten.” 14 “Testimony of Michael Griffin”; and “Testimony of John E. Hyten.”
15 Department of Defense, 15 Department of Defense, 2019 Missile Defense Review, p. XVI, https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Interactive/2018/, p. XVI, https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Interactive/2018/
11-2019-Missile-Defense-Review/The%202019%20MDR_Executive%20Summary.pdf. 11-2019-Missile-Defense-Review/The%202019%20MDR_Executive%20Summary.pdf.
16 See James M. Acton, “Hypersonic Weapons Explainer,” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, April 2, 2018, 16 See James M. Acton, “Hypersonic Weapons Explainer,” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, April 2, 2018,
https://carnegieendowment.org/2018/04/02/hypersonic-weapons-explainer-pub-75957; and Margot van Loon, https://carnegieendowment.org/2018/04/02/hypersonic-weapons-explainer-pub-75957; and Margot van Loon,
“Hypersonic Weapons: A Primer.” “Hypersonic Weapons: A Primer.”
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would need an unaffordable number of THAAD batteries.”17 In addition, some analysts have would need an unaffordable number of THAAD batteries.”17 In addition, some analysts have
argued that the United States’ current command and control architecture would be incapable of argued that the United States’ current command and control architecture would be incapable of
“processing data quickly enough to respond to and neutralize an incoming hypersonic threat.”18 “processing data quickly enough to respond to and neutralize an incoming hypersonic threat.”18
((~~A broader discussion of~~For additional information on hypersonic hypersonic ~~weapons defense is outside the scope of this report~~missile defense, see CRS In Focus IF11623, Hypersonic Missile Defense: Issues for Congress, by Kelley M. Sayler and Stephen M. McCall.) .)
United States
The Department of Defense (DOD) is currently developing hypersonic weapons under the Navy’s The Department of Defense (DOD) is currently developing hypersonic weapons under the Navy’s
Conventional Prompt Strike program, which is intended to provide the U.S. military with the Conventional Prompt Strike program, which is intended to provide the U.S. military with the
ability to strike hardened or time-sensitive targets with conventional warheads, as well as through ability to strike hardened or time-sensitive targets with conventional warheads, as well as through
several Air Force, Army, and DARPA programs.19 Those who support these development efforts several Air Force, Army, and DARPA programs.19 Those who support these development efforts
argue that hypersonic weapons could enhance deterrence, as well as provide the U.S. military argue that hypersonic weapons could enhance deterrence, as well as provide the U.S. military
with an ability to defeat capabilities such as advanced air and missile defense systems that form with an ability to defeat capabilities such as advanced air and missile defense systems that form
the foundation of U.S. competitors’ anti-access/area denial strategies.20 In recognition of this, the the foundation of U.S. competitors’ anti-access/area denial strategies.20 In recognition of this, the
2018 National Defense Strategy identifies hypersonic weapons as one of the key technologies identifies hypersonic weapons as one of the key technologies
“[ensuring the United States] will be able to fight and win the wars of the future.”21 “[ensuring the United States] will be able to fight and win the wars of the future.”21
Programs
Unlike programs in China and Russia, Unlike programs in China and Russia, ~~most~~ U.S. hypersonic weapons are to be conventionally U.S. hypersonic weapons are to be conventionally
armed. As a result, U.S. hypersonic weapons will likely require greater accuracy and will be more armed. As a result, U.S. hypersonic weapons will likely require greater accuracy and will be more
technically challenging to develop than nuclear-armed Chinese and Russian systems. Indeed, technically challenging to develop than nuclear-armed Chinese and Russian systems. Indeed,
according to one expert, “a nuclear-armed glider would be effective if it were 10 or even 100 according to one expert, “a nuclear-armed glider would be effective if it were 10 or even 100
times less accurate [than a conventionally-armed glider]” due to nuclear blast effects.22 times less accurate [than a conventionally-armed glider]” due to nuclear blast effects.22
According to open-source reporting, the United States has a number of major offensive According to open-source reporting, the United States has a number of major offensive
hypersonic weapons and hypersonic technology programs in development, including the hypersonic weapons and hypersonic technology programs in development, including the
following (seefollowing (see Table 1): :
 U.S. Navy—Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS);  U.S. Navy—Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS);
 U.S. Army—Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW);  U.S. Army—Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW);
 U.S. Air Force—AGM-183 Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW,  U.S. Air Force—AGM-183 Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW,
pronounced “arrow”); pronounced “arrow”);
~~ DARPA—Tactical Boost Glide (TBG);~~

17 Acton, “Hypersonic Weapons Explainer.” 17 Acton, “Hypersonic Weapons Explainer.”
18 Margot van Loon, “Hypersonic Weapons: A Primer” in 18 Margot van Loon, “Hypersonic Weapons: A Primer” in Defense Technology Program Brief: Hypersonic Weapons, ,
American Foreign Policy Council, May 17, 2019. Some analysts have suggested that future command and control American Foreign Policy Council, May 17, 2019. Some analysts have suggested that future command and control
systems may require autonomous functionality to manage the speed and unpredictability of hypersonic weapons. See systems may require autonomous functionality to manage the speed and unpredictability of hypersonic weapons. See
John L. Dolan, Richard K. Gallagher, and David L. Mann, “Hypersonic Weapons Are Literally Unstoppable (As in John L. Dolan, Richard K. Gallagher, and David L. Mann, “Hypersonic Weapons Are Literally Unstoppable (As in
America Can’t Stop Them),” America Can’t Stop Them),” Real Clear Defense, April 23, 2019, https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2019/04/, April 23, 2019, https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2019/04/
23/hypersonic_weapons__a_threat_to_national_security_114358.html. 23/hypersonic_weapons__a_threat_to_national_security_114358.html.
19 For a full history of U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, see CRS Report R41464, 19 For a full history of U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, see CRS Report R41464, Conventional Prompt Global
Strike and Long-Range Ballistic Missiles: Background and Issues, by Amy F. Woolf. , by Amy F. Woolf.
20 Roger Zakheim and Tom Karako, “China’s Hypersonic Missile Advances and U.S. Defense Responses,” Remarks at 20 Roger Zakheim and Tom Karako, “China’s Hypersonic Missile Advances and U.S. Defense Responses,” Remarks at
the Hudson Institute, March 19, 2019. See also Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 Budget Estimates, Army the Hudson Institute, March 19, 2019. See also Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 Budget Estimates, Army
Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 580. Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 580.
21 Department of Defense, “Summary of the 2018 National Defense Strategy of The United States of America,” p. 3, 21 Department of Defense, “Summary of the 2018 National Defense Strategy of The United States of America,” p. 3,
https://dod.defense.gov/Portals/1/Documents/pubs/2018-National-Defense-Strategy-Summary.pdf. https://dod.defense.gov/Portals/1/Documents/pubs/2018-National-Defense-Strategy-Summary.pdf.
22 James M. Acton, “China’s Advanced Weapons,” Testimony to the U.S. China Economic and Security Review 22 James M. Acton, “China’s Advanced Weapons,” Testimony to the U.S. China Economic and Security Review
Commission, February 23, 2017, https://carnegieendowment.org/2017/02/23/china-s-advanced-weapons-pub-68095. Commission, February 23, 2017, https://carnegieendowment.org/2017/02/23/china-s-advanced-weapons-pub-68095.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

 DARPA—  DARPA—Tactical Boost Glide (TBG);  DARPA—Operational Fires (OpFires); and Operational Fires (OpFires); and
 DARPA—Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC, pronounced  DARPA—Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC, pronounced
“hawk”). “hawk”).
These programs are intended to produce operational prototypes, as there are currently no These programs are intended to produce operational prototypes, as there are currently no
programs of record for hypersonic weapons.23 Accordingly, funding for U.S. hypersonic weapons programs of record for hypersonic weapons.23 Accordingly, funding for U.S. hypersonic weapons
programs is found in the Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation accounts, rather than in programs is found in the Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation accounts, rather than in
Procurement. Procurement.
U.S. Navy
In a June 2018 memorandum, DOD announced that the Navy would lead the development of a In a June 2018 memorandum, DOD announced that the Navy would lead the development of a
common glide vehicle for use across the services.24 The common glide vehicle is being adapted common glide vehicle for use across the services.24 The common glide vehicle is being adapted
from a Mach 6 Army prototype warhead, the Alternate Re-Entry System, which was successfully from a Mach 6 Army prototype warhead, the Alternate Re-Entry System, which was successfully
tested in 2011 and 2017.25 Once development is complete, “Sandia National Laboratories, the tested in 2011 and 2017.25 Once development is complete, “Sandia National Laboratories, the
designer of the original concept, then will build the common glide vehicles…. Booster systems designer of the original concept, then will build the common glide vehicles…. Booster systems
are being developed separately.”26 are being developed separately.”26
The Navy’s Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) is expected to pair the common glide vehicle with The Navy’s Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) is expected to pair the common glide vehicle with
a submarine-launched booster system, achieving initial operational capability (IOC) on a a submarine-launched booster system, achieving initial operational capability (IOC) on a
Virginia-class submarine with Virginia Payload Module in FY2028Virginia-class submarine with Virginia Payload Module in FY2028~~.27 The Navy is requesting $1~~
~~billion for CPS in FY2021—an increase of $415 million over the FY2020 request and $496~~
~~million over the FY2020 appropriation—and $5.3 billion across the five-year Future Years~~
~~Defense Program (FYDP).28~~
~~U.S. Army~~
~~The Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon program is expected to pair the common glide~~
~~vehicle with the Navy’s booster system. The system is intended to have a range of 1,400 miles~~ and “limited operating capability” on Ohio-class submarines as early as 2025.27 Section 1697 of the FY2020 NDAA (P.L. 116-92) requires that the Secretary of the Navy also “ensure that the technologies developed for the conventional prompt global strike weapon system are transferrable to a surface-launched platform,” while Section 1671 of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) directs the Secretary “to initiate efforts to integrate [the technologies developed for CPS into Zumwalt-class] destroyers during fiscal year 2021.’’ According to former National Security Advisor Robert O’Brien, the Navy plans to eventually field hypersonic weapons on both Zumwalt- and Burke-class destroyers.28 The Navy is requesting $1 billion for CPS in FY2021—an increase of $415 million

23 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics, But Only Prototypes,” 23 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics, But Only Prototypes,” Aviation Week, March , March
15, 2019, https://aviationweek.com/defense/new-long-term-pentagon-plan-boosts-hypersonics-only-prototypes. 15, 2019, https://aviationweek.com/defense/new-long-term-pentagon-plan-boosts-hypersonics-only-prototypes.
24 The services coordinate efforts on a Common Hypersonic Glide Body Board of Directors with rotating chairmanship. 24 The services coordinate efforts on a Common Hypersonic Glide Body Board of Directors with rotating chairmanship.
Sydney J. Freedberg, Jr., “Army Ramps Up Funding For Laser Shield, Hypersonic Sword,” Sydney J. Freedberg, Jr., “Army Ramps Up Funding For Laser Shield, Hypersonic Sword,” Breaking Defense, ,
February 28, 2020, https://breakingdefense.com/2020/02/army-ramps-up-funding-for-laser-shield-hypersonic-sword/. February 28, 2020, https://breakingdefense.com/2020/02/army-ramps-up-funding-for-laser-shield-hypersonic-sword/.
25 Steve Trimble and Guy Norris, “Sandia’s Swerve Could Lead to First-gen Hypersonic Production Line,” 25 Steve Trimble and Guy Norris, “Sandia’s Swerve Could Lead to First-gen Hypersonic Production Line,” Aviation
Week, October 11, 2018, http://aviationweek.com/air-dominance/sandia-s-swerve-could-lead-first-gen-hypersonic-, October 11, 2018, http://aviationweek.com/air-dominance/sandia-s-swerve-could-lead-first-gen-hypersonic-
production-line; and Sydney J. Freedberg Jr., “Army Warhead Is Key To Joint Hypersonics,” production-line; and Sydney J. Freedberg Jr., “Army Warhead Is Key To Joint Hypersonics,” Breaking Defense, ,
August 22, 2018, https://breakingdefense.com/2018/08/army-warhead-is-key-to-joint-hypersonics/. August 22, 2018, https://breakingdefense.com/2018/08/army-warhead-is-key-to-joint-hypersonics/.
26 26 Steve Trimble and Trimble and Guy Norris, “Sandia’s Swerve Could Lead to First-gen Hypersonic Production Line,” Aviation Week, October 11, 2018, http://aviationweek.com/air-dominance/sandia-s-swerve-could-lead-first-gen-hypersonic-production-line. ~~Norris, “Sandia’s Swerve.”~~
27 Department of the Navy, “Highlights of the Department of the Navy FY 2021 Budget,” February 10, 2020, 27 Department of the Navy, “Highlights of the Department of the Navy FY 2021 Budget,” February 10, 2020,
https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Documents/21pres/Highlights_book.pdfhttps://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Documents/21pres/Highlights_book.pdf~~. Vice Admiral Terry Benedict, former~~
~~director of the Navy Strategic Systems Program, has stated that CPS will eventually be deployed on both Ohio- and~~
~~Virginia-class submarines. Navy leadership has also discussed the possibility of deploying CPS on Arleigh Burke- and~~
~~Zumwalt-class destroyers. See Jason Sherman and Lee Hudson, “Navy reveals plans to put hypersonic strike weapons~~
~~on submarines,” Inside Defense, November 8, 2017, https://insidedefense.com/inside-missile-defense/navy-reveals-~~
~~plans-put-hypersonic-strike-weapons-submarines; and Paul McLeary, “SecNav Tells Fleet Hypersonic Competition~~
~~Demands ‘Sputnik Moment;’ Glide Body Test Set,” Breaking Defense, January 31, 2020, https://breakingdefense.com/~~
~~2020/01/secnav-tells-fleet-hypersonic-competition-demands-sputnik-moment-glide-body-test-set/.~~
~~28 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research,~~
~~Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1419, https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/~~
~~Documents/21pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf; see also CRS In Focus IF10831,~~ ~~Defense Primer: Future Years Defense~~
~~Program (FYDP), by Brendan W. McGarry and Heidi M. Peters.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

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~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

; and Megan Eckstein, “Navy Says Hypersonic Weapons Coming to Subs in 5 Years,” USNI News, November 17, 2020, https://news.usni.org/2020/11/17/navy-says-hypersonic-weapons-coming-to-subs-in-5-years. 28 David B. Larter, “All US Navy destroyers will get hypersonic missiles, says Trump’s national security adviser,” Defense News, October 21, 2020, https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2020/10/21/all-us-navy-destroyers-will-get-hypersonic-missiles-trumps-national-security-advisor-says/. Congressional Research Service 5 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress over the FY2020 request and $496 million over the FY2020 appropriation—and $5.3 billion across the five-year Future Years Defense Program (FYDP).29 U.S. Army The Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon program is expected to pair the common glide vehicle with the Navy’s booster system. The system is intended to have a range of 1,400 miles and “provide the Army with a prototype strategic attack weapon system to defeat A2/AD and “provide the Army with a prototype strategic attack weapon system to defeat A2/AD
capabilities, suppress adversary Long Range Fires, and engage other high payoff/time sensitive capabilities, suppress adversary Long Range Fires, and engage other high payoff/time sensitive
targets.”targets.”2930 The Army is requesting $801 million for the program in FY2021—$573 million over The Army is requesting $801 million for the program in FY2021—$573 million over
the FY2020 request and $397 million over the FY2020 appropriation—and $3.3 billion across the the FY2020 request and $397 million over the FY2020 appropriation—and $3.3 billion across the
FYDP.FYDP.3031 It plans to conduct flight tests for LRHW from FY2021 to FY2023, field combat rounds It plans to conduct flight tests for LRHW from FY2021 to FY2023, field combat rounds
in FY2023, and transition to a program of record in the fourth quarter of FY2024.in FY2023, and transition to a program of record in the fourth quarter of FY2024.3132
U.S. Air Force
The AGM-183 Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon is expected to leverage DARPA’s Tactical The AGM-183 Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon is expected to leverage DARPA’s Tactical
Boost Glide technology to develop an air-launched hypersonic glide vehicle prototype capable of Boost Glide technology to develop an air-launched hypersonic glide vehicle prototype capable of
travelling at average speeds of between Mach 6.5 and Mach 8 at a range of approximately 1,000 travelling at average speeds of between Mach 6.5 and Mach 8 at a range of approximately 1,000
miles.miles.3233 Despite testing delays due to technical challenges, ARRW Despite testing delays due to technical challenges, ARRW successfully completed a “captive carry” test flight in June 2019; its first free-flight test failed in April 2021.34~~completed a successful flight~~
~~test in June 2019 and is expected to complete flight tests in FY2022.33~~ The Air Force has The Air Force has
requested $382 million for ARRW in FY2021—up from $286 million in the FY2020 request and requested $382 million for ARRW in FY2021—up from $286 million in the FY2020 request and
appropriation—and $581 million across the FYDP, with no funds requested beyond FY2022.appropriation—and $581 million across the FYDP, with no funds requested beyond FY2022.34
35 ARRW is a project under the Air Force’s Hypersonics Prototyping Program Element, ARRW is a project under the Air Force’s Hypersonics Prototyping Program Element, ~~which is~~
~~intended to demonstrate concepts “to [enable] leadership to make informed strategy and resource~~
~~decisions … for future programs.”35~~
~~In February 2020, the Air Force announced that it had cancelled its second hypersonic weapon~~
~~program, the Hypersonic Conventional Strike Weapon (HCSW), which had been expected to use~~
~~the common glide vehicle, due to budget pressures that forced it to choose between ARRW and~~
~~HCSW.36 Air Force acquisition chief Will Roper explained that ARRW was selected because it~~

29 29 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1419, https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Documents/21pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf; see also CRS In Focus IF10831, Defense Primer: Future Years Defense Program (FYDP), by Brendan W. McGarry and Heidi M. Peters. 30 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, pp. 579-584, https://www.asafm.army.mil/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, pp. 579-584, https://www.asafm.army.mil/
documents/BudgetMaterial/fy2020/rdte_ba4.pdf; and Sydney J. Freedberg Jr., “Army Sets 2023 Hypersonic Flight documents/BudgetMaterial/fy2020/rdte_ba4.pdf; and Sydney J. Freedberg Jr., “Army Sets 2023 Hypersonic Flight
Test; Strategic Cannon Advances,” Test; Strategic Cannon Advances,” Breaking Defense, March 19, 2019, https://breakingdefense.com/2019/03/army-, March 19, 2019, https://breakingdefense.com/2019/03/army-
sets-2023-hypersonic-flight-test-strategic-cannon-advances/. sets-2023-hypersonic-flight-test-strategic-cannon-advances/.
3031 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 613, https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 613, https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/
Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/Base%20Budget/rdte/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/Base%20Budget/rdte/
RDTE_BA_4_FY_2021_PB_RDTE_Vol%202_Budget_Activity_4.pdf. RDTE_BA_4_FY_2021_PB_RDTE_Vol%202_Budget_Activity_4.pdf.
3132 Department of the Army, “FY 2021: President’s Budget Highlights,” February 2020, p. 18, Department of the Army, “FY 2021: President’s Budget Highlights,” February 2020, p. 18,
https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/pbr/Overview%20and%20Highlights/https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2021/pbr/Overview%20and%20Highlights/
Army_FY_2021_Budget_Highlights.pdf. Army_FY_2021_Budget_Highlights.pdf.
3233 ARRW is expected to be launched initially from the B-52H strategic bomber. Thomas Newdick, “Air Force Says ARRW is expected to be launched initially from the B-52H strategic bomber. Thomas Newdick, “Air Force Says
New Hypersonic Missile Will Hit Targets 1,000 Miles Away In Under 12 Minutes,” New Hypersonic Missile Will Hit Targets 1,000 Miles Away In Under 12 Minutes,” The Drive, October 13, 2020, , October 13, 2020,
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/37045/air-force-says-new-hypersonic-missile-will-hit-targets-1000-miles-https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/37045/air-force-says-new-hypersonic-missile-will-hit-targets-1000-miles-
away-in-under-12-minutes. away-in-under-12-minutes.
~~33 The Air Force’s budget request notes that “further schedule details can be provided in the appropriate forum.”~~
~~Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research,~~
~~Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 128. See also Lee Hudson and Steve Trimble, “Top U.S. Hypersonic~~
~~Weapon Program Facing New Schedule Pressure,” Aviation Week, January 11, 2019, http://aviationweek.com/defense/~~
~~top-us-hypersonic-weapon-program-facing-new-schedule-pressure.~~
3434 Oriana Pawlyk, “Air Force’s Hypersonic ARRW Missile Fails First Flight Test,” Military.com, April 6, 2021, https://www.military.com/daily-news/2021/04/06/air-forces-hypersonic-arrw-missile-fails-first-flight-test.html#:~:text=In%20June%202019%2C%20the%20service,early%202020s%2C%20the%20release%20states. 35 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 121, https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY21/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 121, https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY21/
RDTE_/FY21%20Air%20Force%20Research%20Development%20Test%20and%20Evaluation%20Vol%20II.pdf?RDTE_/FY21%20Air%20Force%20Research%20Development%20Test%20and%20Evaluation%20Vol%20II.pdf?
ver=2020-02-12-145218-377. ver=2020-02-12-145218-377.
~~35 Ibid., p. 121.~~
~~36 Valerie Insinna, “US Air Force kills one of its hypersonic weapons programs,” Defense News, February 10, 2020,~~
~~https://www.defensenews.com/smr/federal-budget/2020/02/10/the-air-force-just-canceled-one-of-its-hypersonic-~~
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~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

Congressional Research Service 6 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress which is intended to demonstrate concepts “to [enable] leadership to make informed strategy and resource decisions … for future programs.”36 In February 2020, the Air Force announced that it had cancelled its second hypersonic weapon program, the Hypersonic Conventional Strike Weapon (HCSW), which had been expected to use the common glide vehicle, due to budget pressures that forced it to choose between ARRW and HCSW.37 Then-Air Force acquisition chief Will Roper explained that ARRW was selected because it was more advanced and gave the Air Force additional options. “[ARRW] is smaller; we can carry was more advanced and gave the Air Force additional options. “[ARRW] is smaller; we can carry
twice as many on the B-52, and it’s possible it could be on the F-15,” he explained.twice as many on the B-52, and it’s possible it could be on the F-15,” he explained.37 38 The Air The Air
Force was to continue its technical review of HCSW through March 2020.Force was to continue its technical review of HCSW through March 2020.3839
Finally, the Air Force is reportedly seeking information from industry on the Expendable Finally, the Air Force is reportedly seeking information from industry on the Expendable
Hypersonic Air-Breathing Multi-Mission Demonstrator Program, also known as “Mayhem.” Hypersonic Air-Breathing Multi-Mission Demonstrator Program, also known as “Mayhem.”
Mayhem is reported to be larger than ARRW and capable of carrying multiple payloads for Mayhem is reported to be larger than ARRW and capable of carrying multiple payloads for
different mission sets.different mission sets.3940
DARPA
DARPA, in partnership with the Air Force, continues to test Tactical Boost Glide, a wedge-shaped DARPA, in partnership with the Air Force, continues to test Tactical Boost Glide, a wedge-shaped
hypersonic glide vehicle capable of Mach 7+ flight that “aims to develop and demonstrate hypersonic glide vehicle capable of Mach 7+ flight that “aims to develop and demonstrate
technologies to enable future air-launched, tactical-range hypersonic boost glide systems.”technologies to enable future air-launched, tactical-range hypersonic boost glide systems.”4041 TBG TBG
will “also consider traceability, compatibility, and integration with the Navy Vertical Launch will “also consider traceability, compatibility, and integration with the Navy Vertical Launch
System” and is planned to transition to both the Air Force and the Navy. DARPA has requested System” and is planned to transition to both the Air Force and the Navy. DARPA has requested
$117 million—down from the $162 million FY2020 request and the $152 million FY2020 $117 million—down from the $162 million FY2020 request and the $152 million FY2020
appropriation—for TBG in FY2021.appropriation—for TBG in FY2021.4142
DARPA’s Operational Fires reportedly seeks to leverage TBG technologies to develop a ground- DARPA’s Operational Fires reportedly seeks to leverage TBG technologies to develop a ground-
launched system that will enable “advanced tactical weapons to penetrate modern enemy air launched system that will enable “advanced tactical weapons to penetrate modern enemy air
defenses and rapidly and precisely engage critical time sensitive targets.” DARPA has requested defenses and rapidly and precisely engage critical time sensitive targets.” DARPA has requested
~~$40 million for OpFires in FY2021—down from the $50 million FY2020 request and~~
~~appropriation—and intends to transition the program to the Army.42~~
~~In the longer term, DARPA, with Air Force support, is continuing work on the Hypersonic Air-~~
~~breathing Weapon Concept, which “seeks to develop and demonstrate critical technologies to~~
~~enable an effective and affordable air-launched hypersonic cruise missile.”43 Assistance Director~~
~~for Hypersonics Mike White has stated that such a missile would be smaller than DOD’s~~
~~hypersonic glide vehicles and could therefore launch from a wider range of platforms. Director~~

~~weapons-programs/.~~
37 36 Ibid., p. 121. 37 Valerie Insinna, “US Air Force kills one of its hypersonic weapons programs,” Defense News, February 10, 2020, https://www.defensenews.com/smr/federal-budget/2020/02/10/the-air-force-just-canceled-one-of-its-hypersonic-weapons-programs/. 38 John A. Tirpak, “Roper: The ARRW Hypersonic Missile Better Option for USAF,” March 2, 2020, John A. Tirpak, “Roper: The ARRW Hypersonic Missile Better Option for USAF,” March 2, 2020,
https://www.airforcemag.com/arrw-beat-hcsw-because-its-smaller-better-for-usaf/. Tirpak additionally notes that “the https://www.airforcemag.com/arrw-beat-hcsw-because-its-smaller-better-for-usaf/. Tirpak additionally notes that “the
F-15 could accelerate the ARRW to Mach 3 before launch, potentially reducing the size of the booster needed to get the F-15 could accelerate the ARRW to Mach 3 before launch, potentially reducing the size of the booster needed to get the
weapon to hypersonic speed.” weapon to hypersonic speed.”
3839 Ibid. Ibid.
3940 See, for example, Rachel S. Cohen, “Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile Becomes High-Priority USAF Project,” See, for example, Rachel S. Cohen, “Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile Becomes High-Priority USAF Project,” Air
Force Magazine, October 13, 2020, https://www.airforcemag.com/hypersonic-attack-cruise-missile-becomes-high-, October 13, 2020, https://www.airforcemag.com/hypersonic-attack-cruise-missile-becomes-high-
priority-usaf-project/. priority-usaf-project/.
4041 “Tactical Boost Glide (TBG) Program Information,” DARPA, https://www.darpa.mil/program/tactical-boost-glide; “Tactical Boost Glide (TBG) Program Information,” DARPA, https://www.darpa.mil/program/tactical-boost-glide;
and Guy Norris, “U.S. Air Force Plans Road Map to Operational Hypersonics,” and Guy Norris, “U.S. Air Force Plans Road Map to Operational Hypersonics,” Aviation Week, July 27, 2017, , July 27, 2017,
https://aviationweek.com/defense/us-air-force-plans-road-map-operational-hypersonics. https://aviationweek.com/defense/us-air-force-plans-road-map-operational-hypersonics.
4142 DARPA states that the decline in the budget request “reflects completion of full-scale testing and final program DARPA states that the decline in the budget request “reflects completion of full-scale testing and final program
reporting.” Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects reporting.” Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects
Agency, Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, pp. 162-164, https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/Agency, Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, pp. 162-164, https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/
defbudget/fy2021/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/defbudget/fy2021/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/
RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2021.pdf. RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2021.pdf.
~~42 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,~~
~~Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 165, https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/~~
~~fy2021/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2021.pdf.~~
~~43 “~~Congressional Research Service 7 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress $40 million for OpFires in FY2021—down from the $50 million FY2020 request and appropriation—and intends to transition the program to the Army.43 In the longer term, DARPA, with Air Force support, is continuing work on the Hypersonic Air-Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept, which “seeks to develop and demonstrate critical technologies to enable an effective and affordable air-launched hypersonic cruise missile.”44 Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White has stated that such a missile would be smaller than DOD’s hypersonic glide vehicles and could therefore launch from a wider range of platforms. Principal Director ~~breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) Program Information,” DARPA, https://www.darpa.mil/~~
~~program/hypersonic-air-breathing-weapon-concept.~~
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~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

White has additionally noted that HAWC and other hypersonic cruise missiles could integrate White has additionally noted that HAWC and other hypersonic cruise missiles could integrate
seekers more easily than hypersonic glide vehicles.seekers more easily than hypersonic glide vehicles.4445 DARPA requested $7 million to develop DARPA requested $7 million to develop
HAWC in FY2021—down from the $10 million FY2020 request and $20 million FY2020 HAWC in FY2021—down from the $10 million FY2020 request and $20 million FY2020
appropriation.appropriation.4546
Table 1. Summary of U.S. Hypersonic Weapons Programs
FY2020
PB2021
Title
($ in millions)
($ in millions)
Schedule
Conventional Prompt Conventional Prompt
512 512
1,008 1,008
IOC in FY2028 IOC in FY2028
Strike (CPS) Strike (CPS)
Long-Range Hypersonic Long-Range Hypersonic
404 404
801 801
Flight tests through 2023 Flight tests through 2023
Weapon (LRHW) Weapon (LRHW)
AGM-183 Air-Launched AGM-183 Air-Launched
286 286
382 382
Flight tests through 2022 Flight tests through 2022
Rapid Response Weapon Rapid Response Weapon
(ARRW) (ARRW)
Hypersonic Conventional Hypersonic Conventional
290 290
0 0
Cancelled in 2020 Cancelled in 2020
Strike Weapon (HCSW) Strike Weapon (HCSW)
Tactical Boost Glide Tactical Boost Glide
152 152
117 117
Testing through at least Testing through at least
(TBG) (TBG)
2021 2021
Operational Fires Operational Fires
50 50
40 40
Testing through at least Testing through at least
(OpFires) (OpFires)
2021; transitions to 2021; transitions to
weapon system weapon system
integration planning and integration planning and
design in 2021 design in 2021
Hypersonic Air-breathing Hypersonic Air-breathing
20 20
7 7
Complete flight tests in Complete flight tests in
Weapon Concept Weapon Concept
2020; final program 2020; final program
(HAWC) (HAWC)
reviews in 2021 reviews in 2021
Source: Program information taken from U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, and DARPA FY2021 Justification Books, Program information taken from U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, and DARPA FY2021 Justification Books,
available at https://available at https://~~comptrol er~~comptroller.defense.gov/Budget-Materials/. 43 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 165, https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2021/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2021.pdf. 44 “Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) Program Information,” DARPA, https://www.darpa.mil/program/hypersonic-air-breathing-weapon-concept. 45~~.defense.gov/Budget-Materials/.~~
~~Hypersonic Missile Defenses46~~
~~DOD is also investing in counter-hypersonic weapons capabilities, although former USD(R&E)~~
~~Michael Griffin has stated that the United States will not have a defensive capability against~~
~~hypersonic weapons until the mid-2020s, at the earliest.47 In September 2018, the Missile Defense~~
~~Agency (MDA)—which in 2017 established a Hypersonic Defense Program pursuant to Section~~
~~1687 of the FY2017 NDAA (P.L. 114-840)—commissioned 21 white papers to explore~~
~~hypersonic missile defense options, including interceptor missiles, hypervelocity projectiles, laser~~

44 “Department of Defense Press Briefing on Hypersonics,” March 2, 2020, https://www.defense.gov/Newsroom/ “Department of Defense Press Briefing on Hypersonics,” March 2, 2020, https://www.defense.gov/Newsroom/
Transcripts/Transcript/Article/2101062/department-of-defense-press-briefing-on-hypersonics/. Transcripts/Transcript/Article/2101062/department-of-defense-press-briefing-on-hypersonics/.
4546 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 165, https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 165, https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/
fy2021/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2021.pdf. fy2021/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2021.pdf.
~~46 For additional information about hypersonic missile defense, see CRS In Focus IF11623,~~ ~~Hypersonic Missile~~
~~Defense: Issues for Congress, by Kelley M. Sayler, Stephen M. McCall, and Quintin A. Reed.~~
~~47 “Media Availability With Deputy Secretary Shanahan and Under Secretary of Defense Griffin at NDIA Hypersonics~~
~~Senior Executive Series,” U.S. Department of Defense, December 13, 2018, https://dod.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/~~
~~Transcript-View/Article/1713396/media-availability-with-deputy-secretary-shanahan-and-under-secretary-of-defens/.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

8

~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

~~guns, and electronic attack systems.48~~Congressional Research Service 8 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress Hypersonic Missile Defenses47 DOD is also investing in counter-hypersonic weapons capabilities, although former USD(R&E) Michael Griffin has stated that the United States will not have a defensive capability against hypersonic weapons until the mid-2020s, at the earliest.48 In September 2018, the Missile Defense Agency (MDA)—which in 2017 established a Hypersonic Defense Program pursuant to Section 1687 of the FY2017 NDAA (P.L. 114-840)—commissioned 21 white papers to explore hypersonic missile defense options, including interceptor missiles, hypervelocity projectiles, laser guns, and electronic attack systems.49 In January 2020, MDA issued a draft request for prototype In January 2020, MDA issued a draft request for prototype
proposals for a Hypersonic Defense Regional Glide Phase Weapons System interceptor. This proposals for a Hypersonic Defense Regional Glide Phase Weapons System interceptor. This
effort is intended to “reduce interceptor key technology and integration risks, anchor modeling effort is intended to “reduce interceptor key technology and integration risks, anchor modeling
and simulation in areas of large uncertainty, and to increase the interceptor technology readiness and simulation in areas of large uncertainty, and to increase the interceptor technology readiness
levels (TRL) to level 5” (validating components in a relevant environment).levels (TRL) to level 5” (validating components in a relevant environment).4950 MDA has also MDA has also
awarded four companies—Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Leidos, and L3Harris—with $20 awarded four companies—Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Leidos, and L3Harris—with $20
million contracts to design prototype space-based (low-Earth orbit) sensors by October 31, million contracts to design prototype space-based (low-Earth orbit) sensors by October 31,
2020.2020.5051 Such sensors could theoretically extend the range at which incoming missiles could be Such sensors could theoretically extend the range at which incoming missiles could be
detected and tracked—a critical requirement for hypersonic missile defense, according to then-detected and tracked—a critical requirement for hypersonic missile defense, according to then-
USD(R&E) Griffin.USD(R&E) Griffin.5152 MDA requested $206.8 million for hypersonic defense in FY2021—up MDA requested $206.8 million for hypersonic defense in FY2021—up
from its $157.4 million FY2020 request—and $659 million across the FYDP.from its $157.4 million FY2020 request—and $659 million across the FYDP.5253 In addition, In addition,
DARPA is working on a program called Glide Breaker, which “will develop critical component DARPA is working on a program called Glide Breaker, which “will develop critical component
technology to support a lightweight vehicle designed for precise engagement of hypersonic technology to support a lightweight vehicle designed for precise engagement of hypersonic
threats at very long range.”threats at very long range.”5354 DARPA requested $3 million for Glide Breaker in FY2021—down DARPA requested $3 million for Glide Breaker in FY2021—down
from $10 million in FY2020.from $10 million in FY2020.5455
Infrastructure
According to a study mandated by the FY2013 National Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 112- According to a study mandated by the FY2013 National Defense Authorization Act (P.L. 112-
239) and conducted by the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA),239) and conducted by the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA),5556 the United States had 48 the United States had 48
critical hypersonic test facilities and mobile assets in 2014 needed for the maturation of critical hypersonic test facilities and mobile assets in 2014 needed for the maturation of
~~hypersonic technologies for defense systems development through 2030. These specialized~~
~~facilities, which simulate the unique conditions experienced in hypersonic flight (e.g., speed,~~
~~pressure, heating),56 included 10 DOD hypersonic ground test facilities, 11 DOD open-air ranges,~~
~~11 DOD mobile assets, 9 NASA facilities, 2 Department of Energy facilities, and 5 industry or~~
~~academic facilities.57 In its 2014 evaluation of U.S. hypersonic test and evaluation infrastructure,~~
~~IDA noted that “no current U.S. facility can provide full-scale, time-dependent, coupled~~
~~aerodynamic and thermal-loading environments for flight durations necessary to evaluate~~

48 47 For additional information about hypersonic missile defense, see CRS In Focus IF11623, Hypersonic Missile Defense: Issues for Congress, by Kelley M. Sayler, Stephen M. McCall, and Quintin A. Reed. 48 “Media Availability With Deputy Secretary Shanahan and Under Secretary of Defense Griffin at NDIA Hypersonics Senior Executive Series,” U.S. Department of Defense, December 13, 2018, https://dod.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1713396/media-availability-with-deputy-secretary-shanahan-and-under-secretary-of-defens/. 49 P.L. 114-840, Section 2, Division A, Title XVI, §1687; and Hudson and Trimble, “Top U.S. Hypersonic Weapon P.L. 114-840, Section 2, Division A, Title XVI, §1687; and Hudson and Trimble, “Top U.S. Hypersonic Weapon
Program”; Steve Trimble, “A Hypersonic Sputnik?,” p. 21. Program”; Steve Trimble, “A Hypersonic Sputnik?,” p. 21.
4950 Missile Defense Agency, “Draft Request for Prototype Proposal: Hypersonic Defense Regional Glide Phase Weapon Missile Defense Agency, “Draft Request for Prototype Proposal: Hypersonic Defense Regional Glide Phase Weapon
System,” January 30, 2020, p. 8. TRL measures a technology’s level of maturity; TRL 5 requires validation in a System,” January 30, 2020, p. 8. TRL measures a technology’s level of maturity; TRL 5 requires validation in a
relevant environment. For information about specific TRLs, see Troy Carter, “The 9 Technology Readiness Levels of relevant environment. For information about specific TRLs, see Troy Carter, “The 9 Technology Readiness Levels of
the DOD,” TechLink, https://techlinkcenter.org/technology-readiness-level-dod/. the DOD,” TechLink, https://techlinkcenter.org/technology-readiness-level-dod/.
5051 Sandra Erwin, “Missile Defense Agency selects four companies to develop space sensors,” Sandra Erwin, “Missile Defense Agency selects four companies to develop space sensors,” Space News, October 30, , October 30,
2019, https://spacenews.com/missile-defense-agency-selects-four-companies-to-develop-space-sensors/. Experts 2019, https://spacenews.com/missile-defense-agency-selects-four-companies-to-develop-space-sensors/. Experts
disagree on the cost and technological feasibility of space-based missile defense. disagree on the cost and technological feasibility of space-based missile defense.
5152 Media Availability With Deputy Secretary Shanahan and Under Secretary of Defense Griffin.” Media Availability With Deputy Secretary Shanahan and Under Secretary of Defense Griffin.”
5253 Missile Defense Agency, Budget Estimates Overview: Fiscal Year 2021, p. 12, https://www.mda.mil/global/ Missile Defense Agency, Budget Estimates Overview: Fiscal Year 2021, p. 12, https://www.mda.mil/global/
documents/pdf/budgetfy21.pdf. documents/pdf/budgetfy21.pdf.
5354 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 164. Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 164.
5455 Ibid. Ibid.
5556 P.L. 112-239, Section 2, Division A, Title X, §1071. Congressional Research Service 9 link to page 25 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress hypersonic technologies for defense systems development through 2030.57 These specialized facilities, which simulate the unique conditions experienced in hypersonic flight (e.g., speed, pressure, heating),58 included 10 DOD hypersonic ground test facilities, 11 DOD open-air ranges, 11 DOD mobile assets, 9 NASA facilities, 2 Department of Energy (DOE) facilities, and 5 industry or academic facilities.59 In its 2014 evaluation of U.S. hypersonic test and evaluation infrastructure, IDA noted that “no current U.S. facility can provide full-scale, time-dependent, coupled aerodynamic and thermal-loading environments for flight durations necessary to evaluate these characteristics above Mach 8.” ~~P.L. 112-239, Section 2, Division A, Title X, §1071.~~
~~56 These conditions additionally require the development of specialized materials such as metals and ceramics.~~
~~57 This list is taken directly from a 2014 Institute for Defense Analysis report and, therefore, may not be current. See~~
~~(U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al.,~~ ~~(U) Study on the Ability of the U.S. Test and Evaluation Infrastructure to Effectively~~
~~and Efficiently Mature Hypersonic Technologies for Defense Systems Development: Summary Analysis and~~
~~Assessment, Institute for Defense Analyses, September 2014. Permission to use this material has been granted by the~~
~~Office of Science and Technology Policy.~~
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9

~~link to page 23~~ ~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

~~these characteristics above Mach 8.”~~ Since the 2014 study report was published, the University of Since the 2014 study report was published, the University of
Notre Dame has opened a Mach 6 hypersonic wind tunnel and at least one hypersonic testing Notre Dame has opened a Mach 6 hypersonic wind tunnel and at least one hypersonic testing
facility has been inactivated. Development of Mach 8 and Mach 10 wind tunnels at Purdue facility has been inactivated. Development of Mach 8 and Mach 10 wind tunnels at Purdue
University and the University of Notre Dame, respectively, is ongoing.University and the University of Notre Dame, respectively, is ongoing.5860 In addition, the In addition, the
University of Arizona plans to modify one of its wind tunnels to enable Mach 5 testing by early University of Arizona plans to modify one of its wind tunnels to enable Mach 5 testing by early
2021, while Texas A&M University—in partnership with Army Futures Command—plans to 2021, while Texas A&M University—in partnership with Army Futures Command—plans to
complete construction of a kilometer-long Mach 10 wind tunnel by 2021.complete construction of a kilometer-long Mach 10 wind tunnel by 2021.5961 (For a list of U.S. (For a list of U.S.
hypersonic test assets and their capabilities, see hypersonic test assets and their capabilities, see thethe Appendix.) The United States also uses the ) The United States also uses the
Royal Australian Air Force Woomera Test Range in Australia and the Andøya Rocket Range in Royal Australian Air Force Woomera Test Range in Australia and the Andøya Rocket Range in
Norway for flight testing.Norway for flight testing.6062 In January 2019, the Navy announced plans to reactivate its Launch In January 2019, the Navy announced plans to reactivate its Launch
Test Complex at China Lake, CA, to improve air launch and underwater testing capabilities for Test Complex at China Lake, CA, to improve air launch and underwater testing capabilities for
the conventional prompt strike program.the conventional prompt strike program.61
63 According to an assessment conducted by the Government Accountability Office, DOD has dedicated approximately $1 billion to hypersonic facility modernization from FY2015 to FY2024.64 In April 2020, DOD’s Office of Inspector General announced that it would be evaluating current In April 2020, DOD’s Office of Inspector General announced that it would be evaluating current
ground test and evaluation facilities to determine if the capability and capacity would be ground test and evaluation facilities to determine if the capability and capacity would be
~~sufficient to execute DOD’s planned test schedule.62 In addition, in March 2020, DOD announced~~
~~that it had established a “hypersonic war room” to assess the U.S. industrial base for hypersonic~~
~~weapons and identify “critical nodes” in the supply chain.63 DOD has also amended its “5000~~
~~series” acquisition policy in order to enhance supply chain resiliency and reduce sustainment~~
~~costs.64~~
~~Russia~~
~~Although Russia has conducted research on hypersonic weapons technology since the 1980s, it~~
~~accelerated its efforts in response to U.S. missile defense deployments in both the United States~~
~~and Europe, and in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty in~~
~~2001.65 Detailing Russia’s concerns, President Putin stated that “the US is permitting constant,~~

58 57 A more recent report by the Government Accountability Office states that there are “26 DOD, DOE, NASA, and private U.S. wind tunnel facilities capable of supporting hypersonic research.” Government Accountability Office, Hypersonic Weapons: DOD Should Clarify Roles and Responsibilities to Ensure Coordination across Development Efforts, GAO-21-378, March 22, 2021, p. 15, https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-378. 58 These conditions additionally require the development of specialized materials such as metals and ceramics. 59 This list is taken directly from a 2014 Institute for Defense Analysis report and, therefore, may not be current. See (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al., (U) Study on the Ability of the U.S. Test and Evaluation Infrastructure to Effectively and Efficiently Mature Hypersonic Technologies for Defense Systems Development: Summary Analysis and Assessment, Institute for Defense Analyses, September 2014. Permission to use this material has been granted by the Office of Science and Technology Policy. 60 Oriana Pawlyk, “Air Force Expanding Hypersonic Technology Testing at Two Indiana Universities,” Military.com, Oriana Pawlyk, “Air Force Expanding Hypersonic Technology Testing at Two Indiana Universities,” Military.com,
April 23, 2019, https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/04/23/air-force-expanding-hypersonic-technology-testing-April 23, 2019, https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/04/23/air-force-expanding-hypersonic-technology-testing-
two-indiana-universities.html. two-indiana-universities.html.
5961 University of Arizona, “Mach 5 Quiet Ludwieg Tube,” https://transition.arizona.edu/facilities/qlt5?_ga= University of Arizona, “Mach 5 Quiet Ludwieg Tube,” https://transition.arizona.edu/facilities/qlt5?_ga=
2.62515882.768526379.1582843192-983632914.1582843192; and Ashley Tressel, “Army to open hypersonic testing 2.62515882.768526379.1582843192-983632914.1582843192; and Ashley Tressel, “Army to open hypersonic testing
facility at Texas A&M,” Inside Defense, October 13, 2019, https://insidedefense.com/daily-news/army-open-facility at Texas A&M,” Inside Defense, October 13, 2019, https://insidedefense.com/daily-news/army-open-
hypersonic-testing-facility-texas-am. Additional universities such as the University of Maryland, the California hypersonic-testing-facility-texas-am. Additional universities such as the University of Maryland, the California
Institute of Technology, the Georgia Institute of Technology, the Air Force Academy, the University of Tennessee, and Institute of Technology, the Georgia Institute of Technology, the Air Force Academy, the University of Tennessee, and
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University also maintain experimental hypersonic facilities or conduct Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University also maintain experimental hypersonic facilities or conduct
hypersonic research. hypersonic research.
6062 (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al., (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al., (U) Study on the Ability of the U.S. Test and Evaluation Infrastructure.
6163 “Update: US Navy to develop China Lake to support CPS weapon testing,” “Update: US Navy to develop China Lake to support CPS weapon testing,” Jane’s (subscription required), February (subscription required), February
12, 2019, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1644858-JMR. 12, 2019, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1644858-JMR.
6264 Government Accountability Office, Hypersonic Weapons: DOD Should Clarify Roles and Responsibilities to Ensure Coordination across Development Efforts, GAO-21-378, March 22, 2021, p. 27, https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-378. Congressional Research Service 10 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress sufficient to execute DOD’s planned test schedule.65 Similarly, Section 222 of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) requires the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, in consultation with the Director of Operational Test and Evaluation, to submit to the congressional defense committees “an assessment of the sufficiency of the testing capabilities and infrastructure used for fielding hypersonic weapons, and a description of any investments in testing capabilities and infrastructure that may be required to support in-flight and ground-based testing for such weapons.” In addition, in March 2020, DOD announced that it had established a “hypersonic war room” to assess the U.S. industrial base for hypersonic weapons and identify “critical nodes” in the supply chain.66 DOD has also amended its “5000 series” acquisition policy in order to enhance supply chain resiliency and reduce sustainment costs.67 Russia Although Russia has conducted research on hypersonic weapons technology since the 1980s, it accelerated its efforts in response to U.S. missile defense deployments in both the United States and Europe, and in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty in 2001.68 Detailing Russia’s concerns, President Putin stated that “the US is permitting constant, uncontrolled growth of the number of anti-ballistic missiles, improving their quality, and creating new missile launching areas. If we do not do something, eventually this will result in the complete devaluation of Russia’s nuclear potential. Meaning that all of our missiles could simply be intercepted.”69 Russia thus seeks hypersonic weapons, which can maneuver as they approach their targets, as an assured means of penetrating U.S. missile defenses and restoring its sense of strategic stability.70 Programs Russia is pursuing two hypersonic weapons programs—the Avangard and the 3M22 Tsirkon (or Zircon)—and has reportedly fielded the Kinzhal (“Dagger”), a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile.71 65 See Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, “Memorandum for Distribution: Evaluation of the Ground See Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, “Memorandum for Distribution: Evaluation of the Ground
Test and Evaluation Infrastructure Supporting Hypersonic Capabilities (Project No. D2020-DEV0SN-0106.000),” Test and Evaluation Infrastructure Supporting Hypersonic Capabilities (Project No. D2020-DEV0SN-0106.000),”
April 13, 2020, https://media.defense.gov/2020/Apr/14/2002280826/-1/-1/1/D2020-DEV0SN-0106.000.PDF. April 13, 2020, https://media.defense.gov/2020/Apr/14/2002280826/-1/-1/1/D2020-DEV0SN-0106.000.PDF.
6366 Aaron Mehta, “Pentagon launches hypersonic industrial base study,” Aaron Mehta, “Pentagon launches hypersonic industrial base study,” Defense News, March 3, 2020, , March 3, 2020,
https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2020/03/02/pentagon-launches-hypersonic-industrial-base-study/. https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2020/03/02/pentagon-launches-hypersonic-industrial-base-study/.
6467 C. Todd Lopez, “Rewrite of Acquisition Regulation Helps U.S. Build Hypersonic Arsenal More Quickly,” C. Todd Lopez, “Rewrite of Acquisition Regulation Helps U.S. Build Hypersonic Arsenal More Quickly,” DOD
News, October 30, 2020, https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2400205/rewrite-of-acquisition-, October 30, 2020, https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2400205/rewrite-of-acquisition-
regulation-helps-us-build-hypersonic-arsenal-more-quickly/. regulation-helps-us-build-hypersonic-arsenal-more-quickly/.
6568 United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapons: A Challenge and Opportunity for Strategic
Arms Control, February 2019, https://www.un.org/disarmament/publications/more/hypersonic-weapons-a-challenge-, February 2019, https://www.un.org/disarmament/publications/more/hypersonic-weapons-a-challenge-
and-opportunity-for-strategic-arms-control/. and-opportunity-for-strategic-arms-control/.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

10

~~link to page 15~~ ~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

~~uncontrolled growth of the number of anti-ballistic missiles, improving their quality, and creating~~
~~new missile launching areas. If we do not do something, eventually this will result in the~~
~~complete devaluation of Russia’s nuclear potential. Meaning that all of our missiles could simply~~
~~be intercepted.”66 Russia thus seeks hypersonic weapons, which can maneuver as they approach~~
~~their targets, as an assured means of penetrating U.S. missile defenses and restoring its sense of~~
~~strategic stability.67~~
~~Programs~~
~~Russia is pursuing two hypersonic weapons programs—the Avangard and the 3M22 Tsirkon (or~~
~~Zircon)—and has reportedly fielded the Kinzhal (“Dagger”), a maneuvering air-launched ballistic~~
~~missile.68~~
69 Vladimir Putin, “Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly,” March 1, 2018, http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/56957. 70 In this instance, “strategic stability” refers to a “bilateral nuclear relationship of mutual vulnerability.” See Tong Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability: Chinese Perceptions of Hypersonic Technology and the Security Dilemma,” Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy, July 23, 2018, https://carnegietsinghua.org/2018/07/23/conventional-challenges-to-strategic-stability-chinese-perceptions-of-hypersonic-technology-and-security-dilemma-pub-76894. 71 Although the Kinzhal is a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile rather than a hypersonic glide vehicle or Congressional Research Service 11 link to page 15 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress Avangard Avangard (Figure 2) is a hypersonic glide vehicle launched from an intercontinental ballistic is a hypersonic glide vehicle launched from an intercontinental ballistic
missile (ICBM), giving it “effectively ‘unlimited’ range.”missile (ICBM), giving it “effectively ‘unlimited’ range.”6972 Reports indicate that Avangard is Reports indicate that Avangard is
currently deployed on the SS-19 Stiletto ICBM, though Russia plans to eventually launch the currently deployed on the SS-19 Stiletto ICBM, though Russia plans to eventually launch the
vehicle from the Sarmat ICBM. Sarmat is still in development, although it vehicle from the Sarmat ICBM. Sarmat is still in development, although it ~~may~~is scheduled to be deployed by be deployed by
~~2021.70~~the end of 2022.73 Avangard features onboard countermeasures and will reportedly carry a nuclear warhead. Avangard features onboard countermeasures and will reportedly carry a nuclear warhead.
It was successfully tested twice in 2016 and once in December 2018, reportedly reaching speeds It was successfully tested twice in 2016 and once in December 2018, reportedly reaching speeds
of Mach 20; however, an October 2017 test resulted in failure. Russian news sources claim that of Mach 20; however, an October 2017 test resulted in failure. Russian news sources claim that
Avangard entered into combat duty in December 2019.Avangard entered into combat duty in December 2019.71

~~66 Vladimir Putin, “Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly,” March 1, 2018, http://en.kremlin.ru/events/~~
~~president/news/56957.~~
~~67 In this instance, “strategic stability” refers to a “bilateral nuclear relationship of mutual vulnerability.” See Tong~~
~~Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability: Chinese Perceptions of Hypersonic Technology and the Security~~
~~Dilemma,” Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy, July 23, 2018, https://carnegietsinghua.org/2018/07/23/~~
~~conventional-challenges-to-strategic-stability-chinese-perceptions-of-hypersonic-technology-and-security-dilemma-~~
~~pub-76894.~~
~~68 Although the Kinzhal is a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile rather than a hypersonic glide vehicle or~~
74 Figure 2. Artist Rendering of Avangard Source: https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_899127-JIR. In addition to Avangard, Russia is developing Tsirkon, a ship-launched hypersonic cruise missile capable of traveling at speeds of between Mach 6 and Mach 8. Tsirkon is reportedly capable of striking both ground and naval targets. According to Russian news sources, Tsirkon has a range of between approximately 250 and 600 miles and can be fired from the vertical launch systems mounted on cruisers Admiral Nakhimov and Pyotr Veliky, Project 20380 corvettes, Project 22350 frigates, and Project 885 Yasen-class submarines, among other platforms.75 These sources assert hypersonic cruise missile, it is often included in reporting of Russia’s hypersonic weapons program. For this reason—hypersonic cruise missile, it is often included in reporting of Russia’s hypersonic weapons program. For this reason—
and because it poses defensive challenges that are similar to other hypersonic weapons—it is included here for and because it poses defensive challenges that are similar to other hypersonic weapons—it is included here for
reference. reference.
6972 Steve Trimble, “A Hypersonic Sputnik?,” Steve Trimble, “A Hypersonic Sputnik?,” Aviation Week, January 14-27, 2019, p. 20. , January 14-27, 2019, p. 20.
~~70 Ibid~~73 Nicholas Fiorenza, “Putin outlines development of Russia’s nuclear triad,” Jane’s Defence Weekly (subscription required), April 22, 2021, https://customer.janes.com/DefenceWeekly/Display/FG_3953700-JDW. Sarmat could reportedly accommodate at least three Avangard vehicles. See Malcolm Claus, “Russia unveils . Sarmat could reportedly accommodate at least three Avangard vehicles. See Malcolm Claus, “Russia unveils
new strategic delivery systems,” new strategic delivery systems,” Jane’s (subscription required), https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_899127-JIR. (subscription required), https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_899127-JIR.
7174 “First regiment of Avangard hypersonic missile systems goes on combat duty in Russia,” “First regiment of Avangard hypersonic missile systems goes on combat duty in Russia,” TASS, December 27, 2019, , December 27, 2019,
https://tass.com/defense/1104297. https://tass.com/defense/1104297.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

11

~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

~~Figure 2. Artist Rendering of Avangard~~

Source: https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_899127-JIR.
~~In addition to Avangard, Russia is developing Tsirkon, a ship-launched hypersonic cruise missile~~
~~capable of traveling at speeds of between Mach 6 and Mach 8. Tsirkon is reportedly capable of~~
~~striking both ground and naval targets. According to Russian news sources, Tsirkon has a range of~~
~~between approximately 250 and 600 miles and can be fired from the vertical launch systems~~
~~mounted on cruisers Admiral Nakhimov and Pyotr Veliky, Project 20380 corvettes, Project 22350~~
~~frigates, and Project 885 Yasen-class submarines, among other platforms.72 These sources assert~~
75 “Russia makes over 10 test launches of Tsirkon seaborne hypersonic missile,” TASS, December 21, 2018, http://tass.com/defense/1037426. See also Russia Military Power: Building a Military to Support Great Power Aspirations, Defense Intelligence Agency, 2017, p. 79, https://www.dia.mil/portals/27/documents/news/military%20power%20publications/russia%20military%20power%20report%202017.pdf. Congressional Research Service 12 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress that Tsirkon was successfully launched from a Project 22350 frigate in January and October that Tsirkon was successfully launched from a Project 22350 frigate in January and October
2020.2020.7376 U.S. intelligence reports indicate that the missile will become operational in 2023. U.S. intelligence reports indicate that the missile will become operational in 2023.7477
In addition, Russia has reportedly fielded Kinzhal, a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile In addition, Russia has reportedly fielded Kinzhal, a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile
modified from the Iskander missile. According to U.S. intelligence reports, Kinzhal was modified from the Iskander missile. According to U.S. intelligence reports, Kinzhal was
successfully test fired from a modified MiG-31 fighter (NATO code name: Foxhound) successfully test fired from a modified MiG-31 fighter (NATO code name: Foxhound) ~~as recently~~
asin July 2018—striking a target at a distance of approximately 500 miles—and July 2018—striking a target at a distance of approximately 500 miles—and ~~is expected by U.S.~~
~~intelligence sources to become ready for combat by 2020.75~~may now be ready for combat.78 Russia plans to deploy the missile on Russia plans to deploy the missile on
both the MiG-31 and the Su-34 long-range strike fighter.both the MiG-31 and the Su-34 long-range strike fighter.7679 Russia is working to mount the missile Russia is working to mount the missile
on the Tu-22M3 strategic bomber (NATO code name: Backfire), although the slower-moving on the Tu-22M3 strategic bomber (NATO code name: Backfire), although the slower-moving
bomber may face challenges in “accelerating the weapon into the correct launch parameters.”bomber may face challenges in “accelerating the weapon into the correct launch parameters.”77

~~72 “Russia makes over 10 test launches of Tsirkon seaborne hypersonic missile,” TASS, December 21, 2018,~~
~~http://tass.com/defense/1037426. See also~~ ~~Russia Military Power: Building a Military to Support Great Power~~
~~Aspirations, Defense Intelligence Agency, 2017, p. 79, https://www.dia.mil/portals/27/documents/news/~~
~~military%20power%20publications/russia%20military%20power%20report%202017.pdf.~~
7380 Russian media has reported Kinzhal’s top speed as Mach 10, with a range of up to 1,200 miles when launched from the MiG-31. The Kinzhal is reportedly capable of maneuverable flight, as well as of striking both ground and naval targets, and could eventually be fitted with a nuclear warhead. However, such claims regarding Kinzhal’s performance characteristics have not been publicly verified by U.S. intelligence agencies, and have been met with skepticism by a number of analysts.81 Infrastructure Russia reportedly conducts hypersonic wind tunnel testing at the Central Aero-Hydrodynamic Institute in Zhukovsky and the Khristianovich Institute of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics in Novosibirsk, and has tested hypersonic weapons at Dombarovskiy Air Base, the Baykonur Cosmodrome, and the Kura Range.82 76 “TASS: Russia Conducts First Ship-Based Hypersonic Missile Test,” “TASS: Russia Conducts First Ship-Based Hypersonic Missile Test,” Reuters, February 27, 2020, , February 27, 2020,
https://www.voanews.com/europe/tass-russia-conducts-first-ship-based-hypersonic-missile-test; and Associated Press, https://www.voanews.com/europe/tass-russia-conducts-first-ship-based-hypersonic-missile-test; and Associated Press,
“Russia reports successful test launch of hypersonic missile,” October 7, 2020, https://apnews.com/article/vladimir-“Russia reports successful test launch of hypersonic missile,” October 7, 2020, https://apnews.com/article/vladimir-
putin-archive-russia-20688205e30f19a8d76fcd77cb9d45a4. putin-archive-russia-20688205e30f19a8d76fcd77cb9d45a4.
7477 Amanda Macias, “Russia again successfully tests ship-based hypersonic missile—which will likely be ready for Amanda Macias, “Russia again successfully tests ship-based hypersonic missile—which will likely be ready for
combat by 2022,”combat by 2022,” CNBC, December 20, 2018, https://www.cnbc.com/2018/12/20/russia-tests-hypersonic-missile-that-, December 20, 2018, https://www.cnbc.com/2018/12/20/russia-tests-hypersonic-missile-that-
could-be-ready-for-war-by-2022.html; and “Russian Navy to accept latest Tsirkon hypersonic missile for service in could-be-ready-for-war-by-2022.html; and “Russian Navy to accept latest Tsirkon hypersonic missile for service in
2023—source,” 2023—source,” TASS, March 20, 2019, http://tass.com/defense/1049572. , March 20, 2019, http://tass.com/defense/1049572.
7578 Amanda Macias, “Russia’s new hypersonic missile, which can be launched from warplanes, will likely be ready for Amanda Macias, “Russia’s new hypersonic missile, which can be launched from warplanes, will likely be ready for
combat by 2020,”combat by 2020,” CNBC, July 13, 2018, https://www.cnbc.com/2018/07/13/russia-new-hypersonic-missile-likely-, July 13, 2018, https://www.cnbc.com/2018/07/13/russia-new-hypersonic-missile-likely-
ready-for-war-by-2020.html. ready-for-war-by-2020.html.
7679 Mark B. Schneider, “Moscow’s Development of Hypersonic Missiles … and What It Means” in Mark B. Schneider, “Moscow’s Development of Hypersonic Missiles … and What It Means” in Defense Technology
Program Brief: Hypersonic Weapons, American Foreign Policy Council, May 17, 2019. , American Foreign Policy Council, May 17, 2019.
7780 Dave Majumdar, “Russia: New Kinzhal Aero-Ballistic Missile Has 3,000 km Range if Fired from Supersonic Dave Majumdar, “Russia: New Kinzhal Aero-Ballistic Missile Has 3,000 km Range if Fired from Supersonic
~~Congressional Research Service~~

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~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

~~Russian media has reported Kinzhal’s top speed as Mach 10, with a range of up to 1,200 miles~~
~~when launched from the MiG-31. The Kinzhal is reportedly capable of maneuverable flight, as~~
~~well as of striking both ground and naval targets, and could eventually be fitted with a nuclear~~
~~warhead. However, such claims regarding Kinzhal’s performance characteristics have not been~~
~~publicly verified by U.S. intelligence agencies, and have been met with skepticism by a number~~
~~of analysts.78~~
~~Infrastructure~~
~~Russia reportedly conducts hypersonic wind tunnel testing at the Central Aero-Hydrodynamic~~
~~Institute in Zhukovsky and the Khristianovich Institute of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics in~~
~~Novosibirsk, and has tested hypersonic weapons at Dombarovskiy Air Base, the Baykonur~~
~~Cosmodrome, and the Kura Range.79~~Bomber,” The National Interest, July 18, 2018, https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/russia-new-kinzhal-aero-ballistic-missile-has-3000-km-range-if-fired-supersonic-bomber. 81 David Axe, “Is Kinzhal, Russia’s New Hypersonic Missile, a Game Changer?,” The Daily Beast, March 15, 2018, https://www.thedailybeast.com/is-kinzhal-russias-new-hypersonic-missile-a-game-changer. 82 “Aerodynamics,” Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute, http://tsagi.com/research/aerodynamics/; “Russia announces successful flight test of Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle,” Jane’s (subscription required), January 3, 2019, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1451630-JMR; and “Avangard system is tested, said to be fully ready for deployment,” Russian Strategic Nuclear Forces, December 26, 2018, http://russianforces.org/blog/2018/12/avangard_system_is_tested_said.shtml. Congressional Research Service 13 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress
China
According to Tong Zhao, a fellow at the Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy, “most According to Tong Zhao, a fellow at the Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy, “most
experts argue that the most important reason to prioritize hypersonic technology development [in experts argue that the most important reason to prioritize hypersonic technology development [in
China] is the necessity to counter specific security threats from increasingly sophisticated U.S. China] is the necessity to counter specific security threats from increasingly sophisticated U.S.
military technology,” such as U.S. regional missile defenses.military technology,” such as U.S. regional missile defenses.8083 In particular, China’s pursuit of In particular, China’s pursuit of
hypersonic weapons, like Russia’s, reflects a concern that U.S. hypersonic weapons could enable hypersonic weapons, like Russia’s, reflects a concern that U.S. hypersonic weapons could enable
the United States to conduct a preemptive, decapitating strike on China’s nuclear arsenal and the United States to conduct a preemptive, decapitating strike on China’s nuclear arsenal and
supporting infrastructure. U.S. missile defense deployments could then limit China’s ability to supporting infrastructure. U.S. missile defense deployments could then limit China’s ability to
conduct a retaliatory strike against the United States.conduct a retaliatory strike against the United States.8184
China has demonstrated a growing interest in Russian advances in hypersonic weapons China has demonstrated a growing interest in Russian advances in hypersonic weapons
technology, conducting flight tests of a hypersonic-glide vehicle (HGV) only days after Russia technology, conducting flight tests of a hypersonic-glide vehicle (HGV) only days after Russia
tested its own system.tested its own system.8285 Furthermore, a January 2017 report found that over half of open-source Furthermore, a January 2017 report found that over half of open-source
Chinese papers on hypersonic weapons include references to Russian weapons programs.Chinese papers on hypersonic weapons include references to Russian weapons programs.8386 This This
could indicate that China is increasingly considering hypersonic weapons within a regional could indicate that China is increasingly considering hypersonic weapons within a regional
context. Indeed, some analysts believe that China may be planning to mate conventionally armed context. Indeed, some analysts believe that China may be planning to mate conventionally armed
HGVs with the DF-21 and DF-26 ballistic missiles in support of an anti-access/area denial HGVs with the DF-21 and DF-26 ballistic missiles in support of an anti-access/area denial

~~Bomber,” The National Interest, July 18, 2018, https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/russia-new-kinzhal-aero-ballistic-~~
~~missile-has-3000-km-range-if-fired-supersonic-bomber.~~
~~78 David Axe, “Is Kinzhal, Russia’s New Hypersonic Missile, a Game Changer?,” The Daily Beast, March 15, 2018,~~
~~https://www.thedailybeast.com/is-kinzhal-russias-new-hypersonic-missile-a-game-changer.~~
~~79 “Aerodynamics,” Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute, http://tsagi.com/research/aerodynamics/; “Russia announces~~
~~successful flight test of Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle,” Jane’s (subscription required), January 3, 2019,~~
~~https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1451630-JMR; and “Avangard system is tested, said to be fully ready for~~
~~deployment,” Russian Strategic Nuclear Forces, December 26, 2018, http://russianforces.org/blog/2018/12/~~
~~avangard_system_is_tested_said.shtml.~~
80strategy.87 China has reportedly not made a final determination as to whether its hypersonic weapons will be nuclear- or conventionally-armed—or dual-capable. Programs China has conducted a number of successful tests of the DF-17, a medium-range ballistic missile specifically designed to launch HGVs. U.S. intelligence analysts assess that the missile has a range of approximately 1,000 to 1,500 miles and may now be deployed.88 China has also tested the DF-41 intercontinental ballistic missile, which could be modified to carry a conventional or nuclear HGV, according to a report by a U.S. Congressional commission. The development of the DF-41 thus “significantly increases the [Chinese] rocket force’s nuclear threat to the U.S. mainland,” the report states.89 China has tested the DF-ZF HGV (previously referred to as the WU-14) at least nine times since 2014. U.S. defense officials have reportedly identified the range of the DF-ZF as approximately 83 Tong Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability: Chinese Perceptions of Hypersonic Technology and the Tong Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability: Chinese Perceptions of Hypersonic Technology and the
Security Dilemma.” Security Dilemma.”
8184 Tong Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability”; and Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Tong Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability”; and Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic
Glide,” August 15, 2017, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, https://www.sipri.org/commentary/topical-Glide,” August 15, 2017, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, https://www.sipri.org/commentary/topical-
backgrounder/2017/chinas-calculus-hypersonic-glide. backgrounder/2017/chinas-calculus-hypersonic-glide.
8285 Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide.” Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide.”
8386 Lora Saalman, “Factoring Russia into the US-China Equation on Hypersonic Glide Vehicles,” SIPRI, January 2017, Lora Saalman, “Factoring Russia into the US-China Equation on Hypersonic Glide Vehicles,” SIPRI, January 2017,
https://www.sipri.org/sites/default/files/Factoring-Russia-into-US-Chinese-equation-hypersonic-glide-vehicles.pdf. https://www.sipri.org/sites/default/files/Factoring-Russia-into-US-Chinese-equation-hypersonic-glide-vehicles.pdf.
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~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

~~strategy.84 China has reportedly not made a final determination as to whether its hypersonic~~
~~weapons will be nuclear- or conventionally-armed—or dual-capable.~~
~~Programs~~
~~China has conducted a number of successful tests of the DF-17, a medium-range ballistic missile~~
~~specifically designed to launch HGVs. U.S. intelligence analysts assess that the missile has a~~
~~range of approximately 1,000 to 1,500 miles and could be deployed in 2020.85 China has also~~
~~tested the DF-41 intercontinental ballistic missile, which could be modified to carry a~~
~~conventional or nuclear HGV, according to a report by a U.S. Congressional commission. The~~
~~development of the DF-41 thus “significantly increases the [Chinese] rocket force’s nuclear threat~~
~~to the U.S. mainland,” the report states.86~~
~~China has tested the DF-ZF HGV (previously referred to as the WU-14) at least nine times since~~
~~2014. U.S. defense officials have reportedly identified the range of the DF-ZF as approximately~~
~~1,200 miles and have stated that the missile may be capable of performing “extreme maneuvers”~~
~~during flight.87 Although unconfirmed by intelligence agencies, some analysts believe the DF-ZF~~
~~will be operational as early as 2020.88~~87 Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide”; and Malcolm Claus and Andrew Tate, “Chinese hypersonic programme reflects regional priorities,” Jane’s (subscription required), March 12, 2019, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1731069-JIR. 88 Ankit Panda, “Introducing the DF-17: China’s Newly Tested Ballistic Missile Armed with a Hypersonic Glide Vehicle,” The National Interest, December 28, 2017, https://thediplomat.com/2017/12/introducing-the-df-17-chinas-newly-tested-ballistic-missile-armed-with-a-hypersonic-glide-vehicle/; and Bill Gertz, “China’s new hypersonic missile,” Washington Times, October 2, 2019, https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/oct/2/china-shows-df-17-hypersonic-missile/. 89 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission 2018 Annual Report, p. 235, https://www.uscc.gov/sites/default/files/annual_reports/2018%20Annual%20Report%20to%20Congress.pdf. Congressional Research Service 14 link to page 19 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress 1,200 miles and have stated that the vehicle may be capable of performing “extreme maneuvers” during flight.90 Although unconfirmed by intelligence agencies, some analysts believe the DF-ZF could have become operational as early as 2020.91
According to U.S. defense officials, China also successfully tested Starry Sky-2 (or Xing Kong- According to U.S. defense officials, China also successfully tested Starry Sky-2 (or Xing Kong-
2), a nuclear-capable hypersonic vehicle prototype, in August 2018.2), a nuclear-capable hypersonic vehicle prototype, in August 2018.8992 China claims the vehicle China claims the vehicle
reached top speeds of Mach 6 and executed a series of in-flight maneuvers before landing.reached top speeds of Mach 6 and executed a series of in-flight maneuvers before landing.9093
Unlike the DF-ZF, Starry Sky-2 is a “waverider” that uses powered flight after launch and derives Unlike the DF-ZF, Starry Sky-2 is a “waverider” that uses powered flight after launch and derives
lift from its own shockwaves. Some reports indicate that the Starry Sky-2 could be operational by lift from its own shockwaves. Some reports indicate that the Starry Sky-2 could be operational by
2025.2025.9194 U.S. officials have declined to comment on the program. U.S. officials have declined to comment on the program.92

~~84 Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide”; and Malcolm Claus and Andrew Tate, “Chinese hypersonic~~
~~programme reflects regional priorities,” Jane’s (subscription required), March 12, 2019, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/~~
~~Display/FG_1731069-JIR.~~
~~85 Ankit Panda, “Introducing the DF-17: China’s Newly Tested Ballistic Missile Armed with a Hypersonic Glide~~
~~Vehicle,” The National Interest, December 28, 2017, https://thediplomat.com/2017/12/introducing-the-df-17-chinas-~~
~~newly-tested-ballistic-missile-armed-with-a-hypersonic-glide-vehicle/; and Bill Gertz, “China’s new hypersonic~~
~~missile,” Washington Times, October 2, 2019, https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/oct/2/china-shows-df-17-~~
~~hypersonic-missile/.~~
~~86 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission 2018 Annual Report, p. 235, https://www.uscc.gov/sites/~~
~~default/files/annual_reports/2018%20Annual%20Report%20to%20Congress.pdf.~~
8795 Infrastructure China has a robust research and development infrastructure devoted to hypersonic weapons. Then-USD(R&E) Michael Griffin stated in March 2018 that China has conducted 20 times as many hypersonic tests as the United States.96 China tested three hypersonic vehicle models (D18-1S, D18-2S, and D18-3S)—each with different aerodynamic properties—in September 2018.97 Analysts believe that these tests could be designed to help China develop weapons that fly at variable speeds, including hypersonic speeds. Similarly, China has used the Lingyun Mach 6+ high-speed engine, or “scramjet,” test bed (Figure 3) to research thermal resistant components and hypersonic cruise missile technologies.98 90 “Gliding missiles that fly faster than Mach 5 are coming,” “Gliding missiles that fly faster than Mach 5 are coming,” The Economist, April 6, 2019, , April 6, 2019,
https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2019/04/06/gliding-missiles-that-fly-faster-than-mach-5-are-https://www.economist.com/science-and-technology/2019/04/06/gliding-missiles-that-fly-faster-than-mach-5-are-
coming; and Franz-Stefan Gady, “China Tests New Weapon Capable of Breaching US Missile Defense Systems,” coming; and Franz-Stefan Gady, “China Tests New Weapon Capable of Breaching US Missile Defense Systems,” The
Diplomat, April 28, 2016, https://thediplomat.com/2016/04/china-tests-new-weapon-capable-of-breaching-u-s-missile-, April 28, 2016, https://thediplomat.com/2016/04/china-tests-new-weapon-capable-of-breaching-u-s-missile-
defense-systems/. defense-systems/.
8891 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission 2015 Annual Report, p. 20, https://www.uscc.gov/sites/, p. 20, https://www.uscc.gov/sites/
default/files/annual_reports/2015%20Annual%20Report%20to%20Congress.PDF. default/files/annual_reports/2015%20Annual%20Report%20to%20Congress.PDF.
8992 Office of the Secretary of Defense, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Annual Report to Congress: Military and Security Developments Involving the
People’s Republic of China 2019, May 2, 2019, p. 44, https://media.defense.gov/2019/May/02/2002127082/-1/-1/1/May 2, 2019, p. 44, https://media.defense.gov/2019/May/02/2002127082/-1/-1/1/
2019_CHINA_MILITARY_POWER_REPORT.pdf. 2019_CHINA_MILITARY_POWER_REPORT.pdf.
9093 Jessie Yeung, “China claims to have successfully tested its first hypersonic aircraft Jessie Yeung, “China claims to have successfully tested its first hypersonic aircraft.
, CNN, August 7, 2018, https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/07/china/china-hypersonic-aircraft-intl/index.html. , August 7, 2018, https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/07/china/china-hypersonic-aircraft-intl/index.html.
9194 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Report 2015, p. 20. p. 20.
9295 Bill Gertz, “China Reveals Test of New Hypersonic Missile,” Bill Gertz, “China Reveals Test of New Hypersonic Missile,” The Washington Free Beacon, August 10, 2018, , August 10, 2018,
https://freebeacon.com/national-security/chinas-reveals-test-new-hypersonic-missile/. https://freebeacon.com/national-security/chinas-reveals-test-new-hypersonic-missile/.
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~~link to page 18~~

~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

~~Infrastructure~~
~~China has a robust research and development infrastructure devoted to hypersonic weapons.~~
~~Then-USD(R&E) Michael Griffin stated in March 2018 that China has conducted 20 times as~~
~~many hypersonic tests as the United States.93 China tested three hypersonic vehicle models (D18-~~
~~1S, D18-2S, and D18-3S)—each with different aerodynamic properties—in September 2018.94~~
~~Analysts believe that these tests could be designed to help China develop weapons that fly at~~
~~variable speeds, including hypersonic speeds. Similarly, China has used the Lingyun Mach 6+~~
~~high-speed engine, or “scramjet,” test bed (Figure 3) to research thermal resistant components~~
~~and hypersonic cruise missile technologies.95~~
96 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Report 2015, p. 20. 97 Malcolm Claus and Andrew Tate, “Chinese hypersonic programme reflects regional priorities,” Jane’s (subscription required), March 12, 2019, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1731069-JIR. 98 Jeffrey Lin and P.W. Singer, “China’s hypersonic military projects include spaceplanes and rail guns,” Popular Mechanics, June 26, 2018, https://www.popsci.com/chinas-hypersonic-work-speeds-up. Congressional Research Service 15 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress Figure 3. Lingyun-1 Hypersonic Cruise Missile Prototype

Source: Photo accompanying Drake Long, “China reveals Lingyun-1 hypersonic missile at National Science and Photo accompanying Drake Long, “China reveals Lingyun-1 hypersonic missile at National Science and
Technology expo,” Technology expo,” The Defense Post, May 21, 2018. , May 21, 2018.
According to According to Jane’s Defence Weekly, “China is also investing heavily in hypersonic ground , “China is also investing heavily in hypersonic ground
testing facilities.”testing facilities.”~~96 CAAA operates the FD-02, FD-03, and FD-07 hypersonic wind tunnels,~~
~~which are~~ 99 For example, the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Center claims to have 18 wind tunnels, while the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics is known to operate at least three hypersonic wind tunnels—the FD-02, FD-03, and FD-07—capable of reaching speeds of Mach 8, Mach 10, and Mach 12, respectively.capable of reaching speeds of Mach 8, Mach 10, and Mach 12, respectively.97100 China China
also operates the JF-12 hypersonic wind tunnel, which reaches speeds of between Mach 5 and also operates the JF-12 hypersonic wind tunnel, which reaches speeds of between Mach 5 and
Mach 9, and the FD-21 hypersonic wind tunnel, which reaches speeds of between Mach 10 and Mach 9, and the FD-21 hypersonic wind tunnel, which reaches speeds of between Mach 10 and
~~Mach 15.98 China is expected to have an operational~~Mach 15101; it is reportedly in the process of building a wind tunnel capable of reaching speeds of wind tunnel capable of reaching speeds of
Mach 25Mach 25 ~~by 2020.99~~ .102 China is known to have tested hypersonic weapons at the Jiuquan Satellite China is known to have tested hypersonic weapons at the Jiuquan Satellite
Launch Center and the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center. Launch Center and the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center.

~~93 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Report 2015, p. 20.~~
~~94 Malcolm Claus and Andrew Tate, “Chinese hypersonic programme reflects regional priorities,”~~ ~~Jane’s~~99 Andrew Tate, “China conducts further tests with hypersonic vehicles,” Janes Defence Weekly (subscription (subscription
required), required), ~~March 12, 2019~~October 2, 2018, https://, https://~~janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1731069-JIR.~~
~~95 Jeffrey Lin and P.W. Singer, “China’s hypersonic military projects include spaceplanes and rail guns,”~~ ~~Popular~~
~~Mechanics, June 26, 2018, https://www.popsci.com/chinas-hypersonic-work-speeds-up.~~
~~96 Tate, “China conducts further tests.”~~
97customer.janes.com/DefenceWeekly/Display/FG_1120806-JDW. 100 Kelvin Wong, “China claims successful test of hypersonic waverider,” Kelvin Wong, “China claims successful test of hypersonic waverider,” Jane’s (subscription required), August 10, (subscription required), August 10,
2018, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1002295-JDW2018, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1002295-JDW; and Ellen Nakashima and Gerry Shih, “China builds advanced weapons systems using American chip technology,” Washington Post, April 9, 2021. 101.
98 Jeffrey Lin and P.W. Singer, “A look at China’s most exciting hypersonic aerospace programs,” Popular Science, Jeffrey Lin and P.W. Singer, “A look at China’s most exciting hypersonic aerospace programs,” Popular Science,
April 18, 2017, https://www.popsci.com/chinas-hypersonic-technology. April 18, 2017, https://www.popsci.com/chinas-hypersonic-technology.
99102 Andrew Tate, “China conducts further tests Tate, “China conducts further tests.”
with hypersonic vehicles,” Janes Defence Weekly (subscription required), October 2, 2018, https://customer.janes.com/DefenceWeekly/Display/FG_1120806-JDW. Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Global Hypersonic Weapons Programs
Although the United States, Russia, and China possess the most advanced hypersonic weapons programs, a Although the United States, Russia, and China possess the most advanced hypersonic weapons programs, a
number of other countries—including Australia, India, France, number of other countries—including Australia, India, France, Germany, and Japan~~and Germany~~—are also developing hypersonic —are also developing hypersonic
weapons technology. Since 2007, the United States has weapons technology. Since 2007, the United States has ~~col aborated~~collaborated with Australia on the Hypersonic with Australia on the Hypersonic
International Flight Research Experimentation (HIFiRE) program to develop hypersonic technologies. The most International Flight Research Experimentation (HIFiRE) program to develop hypersonic technologies. The most
recent HIFiRE test, recent HIFiRE test, ~~successful y~~successfully conducted in July 2017, explored the flight dynamics of a Mach 8 hypersonic glide conducted in July 2017, explored the flight dynamics of a Mach 8 hypersonic glide
vehicle, while previous tests explored scramjet engine technologies. HIFiRE’s successor, the Southern Cross vehicle, while previous tests explored scramjet engine technologies. HIFiRE’s successor, the Southern Cross
Integrated Flight Research Experiment (SCIFiRE) program, is to further develop hypersonic air-breathing Integrated Flight Research Experiment (SCIFiRE) program, is to further develop hypersonic air-breathing
technologies. technologies. SCIFiRE demonstration tests are expected by the mid-2020s. In addition to the Woomera Test In addition to the Woomera Test Range facilities—one of the largest weapons test facilities in the Range facilities—one of the largest weapons test facilities in the
world—Australia world—Australia reportedly operates seven hypersonic wind tunnels and is capable of testing speeds of up to Mach 30. operates seven hypersonic wind tunnels and is capable of testing speeds of up to Mach 30.
India has similarly India has similarly ~~col aborated~~collaborated with Russia on the development of BrahMos II, a Mach 7 hypersonic cruise missile. with Russia on the development of BrahMos II, a Mach 7 hypersonic cruise missile.
Although BrahMos II was initially intended to be fielded in 2017, news reports indicate that the program faces Although BrahMos II was initially intended to be fielded in 2017, news reports indicate that the program faces
significant delays and is now scheduled to achieve initial operational capability between 2025 and 2028. Reportedly, significant delays and is now scheduled to achieve initial operational capability between 2025 and 2028. Reportedly,
India is also developing an indigenous, dual-capable hypersonic cruise missile as part of its Hypersonic Technology India is also developing an indigenous, dual-capable hypersonic cruise missile as part of its Hypersonic Technology
Demonstrator Vehicle program and Demonstrator Vehicle program and ~~successful y~~successfully tested a Mach 6 scramjet in June 2019 and September 2020. India tested a Mach 6 scramjet in June 2019 and September 2020. India
operates approximately 12 hypersonic wind tunnels and is capable of testing speeds of up to Mach 13. operates approximately 12 hypersonic wind tunnels and is capable of testing speeds of up to Mach 13.
France also has France also has ~~col aborated~~collaborated and contracted with Russia on the development of hypersonic technology. Although and contracted with Russia on the development of hypersonic technology. Although
France has been investing in hypersonic technology research since the 1990s, it has only recently announced its France has been investing in hypersonic technology research since the 1990s, it has only recently announced its
intent to weaponize the technology. Under the V-max (Experimental Maneuvering Vehicle) program, France plans intent to weaponize the technology. Under the V-max (Experimental Maneuvering Vehicle) program, France plans
to modify its air-to-surface ASN4G supersonic missile for hypersonic flight by 2022. Some analysts believe that the to modify its air-to-surface ASN4G supersonic missile for hypersonic flight by 2022. Some analysts believe that the
V-max program is intended to provide France with a strategic nuclear weapon. France operates five hypersonic V-max program is intended to provide France with a strategic nuclear weapon. France operates five hypersonic
wind tunnels and is capable of testing speeds of up to Mach 21. wind tunnels and is capable of testing speeds of up to Mach 21.
Germany Germany ~~successful y~~successfully tested an experimental hypersonic glide vehicle (SHEFEX II) in 2012; however, reports tested an experimental hypersonic glide vehicle (SHEFEX II) in 2012; however, reports
indicate that Germany may have indicate that Germany may have ~~pul ed~~pulled funding for the program. German defense contractor DLR continues to funding for the program. German defense contractor DLR continues to
research and test hypersonic vehicles as part of the European Union’s research and test hypersonic vehicles as part of the European Union’s ~~ATLAS~~ATLLAS II project, which seeks to design a II project, which seeks to design a
Mach 5-6 vehicle. Germany operates three hypersonic wind tunnels and is capable of testing speeds of up to Mach 5-6 vehicle. Germany operates three hypersonic wind tunnels and is capable of testing speeds of up to
Mach 11. Mach 11.
Finally, Japan is developing the Hypersonic Cruise Missile (HCM) and the Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile Finally, Japan is developing the Hypersonic Cruise Missile (HCM) and the Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile
(HVGP). According to(HVGP). According to Jane’s, Japan invested $122 , Japan invested $122 ~~mil ion~~million in HVGP in FY2019. It reportedly plans to field one in HVGP in FY2019. It reportedly plans to field one
HVGP warhead for neutralizing aircraft carriers and one for area suppression—both in the 2024 to 2028 HVGP warhead for neutralizing aircraft carriers and one for area suppression—both in the 2024 to 2028
timeframe. The warheads are expected to enter service in 2030. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency timeframe. The warheads are expected to enter service in 2030. The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
operates three hypersonic wind tunnels, with two additional facilities at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and the operates three hypersonic wind tunnels, with two additional facilities at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and the
University of Tokyo. University of Tokyo.
Other countries—including Iran, Israel, and South Korea—have conducted foundational research on hypersonic Other countries—including Iran, Israel, and South Korea—have conducted foundational research on hypersonic
airflows and propulsion systems, but may not be pursuing a hypersonic weapons capability at this time. airflows and propulsion systems, but may not be pursuing a hypersonic weapons capability at this time.
Note: For additional information about global hypersonic weapons programs, see Richard H. Speier et al., Hypersonic
Missile Proliferation. For information about Japan’s hypersonic weapons research and development plans, see Mike Yeo,
“Japan unveils its hypersonic weapons plans,” Defense News, March 14, 2020.
Issues for Congress
As Congress reviews the Pentagon’s plans for U.S. hypersonic weapons programs during the As Congress reviews the Pentagon’s plans for U.S. hypersonic weapons programs during the
annual authorization and appropriations process, it might consider a number of questions about annual authorization and appropriations process, it might consider a number of questions about
the rationale for hypersonic weapons, their expected costs, and their implications for strategic the rationale for hypersonic weapons, their expected costs, and their implications for strategic
stability and arms control. This section provides an overview of some of these questions. stability and arms control. This section provides an overview of some of these questions.
Mission Requirements
Although the Department of Defense is funding a number of hypersonic weapons programs, it has Although the Department of Defense is funding a number of hypersonic weapons programs, it has
not established any programs of record, suggesting that it may not have approved requirements not established any programs of record, suggesting that it may not have approved requirements
~~for hypersonic weapons or long-term funding plans.100 Indeed, as Assistant Director for~~

~~100 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics.”~~
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for hypersonic weapons or long-term funding plans.103 Indeed, as Principal Director for Hypersonics (USD[R&E]) Mike White has stated, DOD has not yet made a decision to acquire Hypersonics (USD[R&E]) Mike White has stated, DOD has not yet made a decision to acquire
hypersonic weapons and is instead developing prototypes to “[identify] the most viable hypersonic weapons and is instead developing prototypes to “[identify] the most viable
overarching weapon system concepts to choose from and then make a decision based on success overarching weapon system concepts to choose from and then make a decision based on success
and challenges.”and challenges.”~~101~~ 104 As Congress conducts oversight of U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, it may As Congress conducts oversight of U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, it may
seek to obtain information about DOD’s evaluation of potential mission sets for hypersonic seek to obtain information about DOD’s evaluation of potential mission sets for hypersonic
weapons, a cost analysis of alternative means of executing these mission sets, and an assessment weapons, a cost analysis of alternative means of executing these mission sets, and an assessment
of the enabling technologies—such as space-based sensors or autonomous command and control of the enabling technologies—such as space-based sensors or autonomous command and control
systems—that systems—that may be required to employ or defend against hypersonic weapons. For example, Section 1671 of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) directs the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, to submit to the congressional defense committees a report on strategic hypersonic weapons, including “a description of how the requirements for land and sea-based hypersonic weapons will be addressed with the Joint Requirements Oversight Council, and how such requirements will be formally provided to the military departments procuring such weapons.” This report is to additionally include “the potential target sets for hypersonic weapons ... and the required mission planning to support targeting by the United States Strategic Command and other combatant commands.”~~may be required to employ or defend against hypersonic weapons.~~
Funding and Management Considerations
~~Assistant~~Principal Director for Hypersonics (USD[R&E]) Mike White has noted that DOD is prioritizing Director for Hypersonics (USD[R&E]) Mike White has noted that DOD is prioritizing
offensive programs while it determines “the path forward to get a robust defensive strategy.”offensive programs while it determines “the path forward to get a robust defensive strategy.”~~102~~105
This approach is reflected in DOD’s FY2021 request, which allocates $206.8 million for This approach is reflected in DOD’s FY2021 request, which allocates $206.8 million for
hypersonic defense programs—of a total $3.2 billion request for all hypersonic-related hypersonic defense programs—of a total $3.2 billion request for all hypersonic-related
research.research.~~103~~106 Similarly, in FY2020, DOD requested $157.4 million for hypersonic defense Similarly, in FY2020, DOD requested $157.4 million for hypersonic defense
programs—of a total $2.6 billion for all hypersonic-related research. programs—of a total $2.6 billion for all hypersonic-related research.
Although the Defense Subcommittees of the Appropriations Committees increased FY2020 Although the Defense Subcommittees of the Appropriations Committees increased FY2020
appropriations for both hypersonic offense and defense above the FY2020 request, they expressed appropriations for both hypersonic offense and defense above the FY2020 request, they expressed
concerns, noting in their joint explanatory statement of H.R. 1158 “that the rapid growth in concerns, noting in their joint explanatory statement of H.R. 1158 “that the rapid growth in
hypersonic research has the potential to result in stove-piped, proprietary systems that duplicate hypersonic research has the potential to result in stove-piped, proprietary systems that duplicate
capabilities and increase costs.”capabilities and increase costs.”~~104~~107 To mitigate this concern, they appropriated $100 million for To mitigate this concern, they appropriated $100 million for
DOD to establish a Joint Hypersonics Transition Office (JHTO) to “develop and implement an DOD to establish a Joint Hypersonics Transition Office (JHTO) to “develop and implement an
integrated science and technology roadmap for hypersonics” and “establish a university integrated science and technology roadmap for hypersonics” and “establish a university
consortium for hypersonic research and workforce development” in support of DOD efforts.consortium for hypersonic research and workforce development” in support of DOD efforts.~~105~~
~~DOD established the JHTO in April 2020 and announced on October 26, 2020, that it awarded~~
~~Texas A&M University with a $20 million contract—renewable for up to $100 million—to~~
~~manage a University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (UCAH).106 UCAH is to be overseen~~
~~by a group of academic researchers from Texas A&M University, the Massachusetts Institute of~~
~~Technology, the University of Minnesota, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the~~

~~101 Ibid.~~
~~102~~108 103 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics.” 104 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics.” 105 Aaron Mehta, “Is the Pentagon Moving Quickly Enough on Hypersonic Defense?” Aaron Mehta, “Is the Pentagon Moving Quickly Enough on Hypersonic Defense?” Defense News, March 21, 2019, , March 21, 2019,
https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2019/03/21/is-the-pentagon-moving-quickly-enough-on-hypersonic-defense/. https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2019/03/21/is-the-pentagon-moving-quickly-enough-on-hypersonic-defense/.
~~103Department~~106Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency Defense-Wide of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency Defense-Wide
Justification Book Volume 2a of 5, p. 10, https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2021/Justification Book Volume 2a of 5, p. 10, https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2021/
budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB21_Justification_Book.pdf. budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB21_Justification_Book.pdf.
~~104~~107 “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2020: Joint Explanatory Statement,” Defense Subcommittees of the “Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2020: Joint Explanatory Statement,” Defense Subcommittees of the
Appropriations Committees, December 16, 2019, https://appropriations.house.gov/sites/Appropriations Committees, December 16, 2019, https://appropriations.house.gov/sites/
democrats.appropriations.house.gov/files/HR%201158%20-%20Division%20A%20-democrats.appropriations.house.gov/files/HR%201158%20-%20Division%20A%20-
%20Defense%20SOM%20FY20.pdf. %20Defense%20SOM%20FY20.pdf.
~~105~~108 Ibid. The Joint Hypersonic Transition Office, then called the Joint Technology Office on Hypersonics, was Ibid. The Joint Hypersonic Transition Office, then called the Joint Technology Office on Hypersonics, was
originally mandated by Section 218 of the FY2007 NDAA (P.L. 109-364). The office was redesignated as the Joint originally mandated by Section 218 of the FY2007 NDAA (P.L. 109-364). The office was redesignated as the Joint
~~Hypersonics Transition Office and given additional authorities in Section 214 of the FY2018 NDAA (P.L. 115-91).~~
~~Section 216 of the FY2020 NDAA (P.L. 116-92) further amended the office’s authorities to include the ability to enter~~
~~into agreements with institutions of higher learning. The office went unfunded until FY2020 and was not established~~
~~until April 2020.~~
~~106 David Vergun, “DOD Awards Applied Hypersonics Contract to Texas A&M University,” DOD News, October 26,~~
~~2020, https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2394438/dod-awards-applied-hypersonics-contract-to-~~
~~texas-am-university/.~~
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Congressional Research Service 18 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress DOD established the JHTO in April 2020 and announced on October 26, 2020, that it awarded Texas A&M University with a $20 million contract—renewable for up to $100 million—to manage a University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (UCAH).109 UCAH is to be overseen by a group of academic researchers from Texas A&M University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Minnesota, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the University of Arizona, the University of Tennessee Space Institute, Morgan State University, the University of Arizona, the University of Tennessee Space Institute, Morgan State University, the
California Institute of Technology, Purdue University, the University of California-Los Angeles, California Institute of Technology, Purdue University, the University of California-Los Angeles,
and the Georgia Institute of Technology.and the Georgia Institute of Technology.~~107~~110 The consortium is to “facilitate transitioning academic The consortium is to “facilitate transitioning academic
research into developing systems [as well as] work with the department to reduce system research into developing systems [as well as] work with the department to reduce system
development timelines while maintaining quality control standards.”development timelines while maintaining quality control standards.”~~108~~
~~Finally, given the lack of defined mission requirements for hypersonic weapons,~~ 111 In addition, Section 1671 of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) directs the Secretary of the Army and the Secretary of the Navy to jointly submit to the congressional defense committees a report on LRHW and CPS, including total costs of the programs, “the strategy for such programs with respect to manning, training, and equipping, including cost estimates, [and] a testing strategy and schedule for such programs.” It directs the Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation to submit to the congressional defense committees an independent cost estimate of these programs.112 Given the lack of defined mission requirements for hypersonic weapons, however, it may be it may be
challenging for Congress to evaluate the balance of funding for hypersonic weapons programs, challenging for Congress to evaluate the balance of funding for hypersonic weapons programs,
enabling technologies, supporting test infrastructure, and hypersonic missile defense. enabling technologies, supporting test infrastructure, and hypersonic missile defense.
Strategic Stability
Analysts disagree about the strategic implications of hypersonic weapons. Some have identified Analysts disagree about the strategic implications of hypersonic weapons. Some have identified
two factors that could hold significant implications for strategic stability: the weapon’s short two factors that could hold significant implications for strategic stability: the weapon’s short
time-of-flight—which, in turn, compresses the timeline for response—and its unpredictable flight time-of-flight—which, in turn, compresses the timeline for response—and its unpredictable flight
path—which could generate uncertainty about the weapon’s intended target and therefore path—which could generate uncertainty about the weapon’s intended target and therefore
heighten the risk of miscalculation or unintended escalation in the event of a conflict. This risk heighten the risk of miscalculation or unintended escalation in the event of a conflict. This risk
could be further compounded in countries that co-locate nuclear and conventional capabilities or could be further compounded in countries that co-locate nuclear and conventional capabilities or
facilities. facilities.
Some analysts argue that unintended escalation could occur as a result of warhead ambiguity, or Some analysts argue that unintended escalation could occur as a result of warhead ambiguity, or
from the inability to distinguish between a conventionally armed hypersonic weapon and a from the inability to distinguish between a conventionally armed hypersonic weapon and a
nuclear-armed one. However, as a United Nations report notes, “even if a State did know that an nuclear-armed one. However, as a United Nations report notes, “even if a State did know that an
HGV launched toward it was conventionally armed, it may still view such a weapon as strategic HGV launched toward it was conventionally armed, it may still view such a weapon as strategic
in nature, regardless of how it was perceived by the State firing the weapon, and decide that a in nature, regardless of how it was perceived by the State firing the weapon, and decide that a
Hypersonics Transition Office and given additional authorities in Section 214 of the FY2018 NDAA (P.L. 115-91). Section 216 of the FY2020 NDAA (P.L. 116-92) further amended the office’s authorities to include the ability to enter into agreements with institutions of higher learning. The office went unfunded until FY2020 and was not established until April 2020. 109 David Vergun, “DOD Awards Applied Hypersonics Contract to Texas A&M University,” DOD News, October 26, 2020, https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2394438/dod-awards-applied-hypersonics-contract-to-texas-am-university/. 110 Ibid. 111 Ibid. 112 The Government Accountability Office notes DOD’s difficulty in developing accurate cost estimates for hypersonic weapons programs. For example, between FY2019 and FY2020, estimates for CPS “almost doubled.” Government Accountability Office, Hypersonic Weapons: DOD Should Clarify Roles and Responsibilities to Ensure Coordination across Development Efforts, GAO-21-378, March 22, 2021, p. 21, https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-378. Congressional Research Service 19 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress strategic response was warranted.”113~~strategic response was warranted.”109~~ Differences in threat perception and escalation ladders Differences in threat perception and escalation ladders
could thus result in unintended escalation. Such concerns have previously led Congress to restrict could thus result in unintended escalation. Such concerns have previously led Congress to restrict
funding for conventional prompt strike programs.funding for conventional prompt strike programs.~~110~~114
Other analysts have argued that the strategic implications of hypersonic weapons are minimal. Other analysts have argued that the strategic implications of hypersonic weapons are minimal.
Pavel Podvig, a senior research fellow at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research, Pavel Podvig, a senior research fellow at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research,
has noted that the weapons “don’t … change much in terms of strategic balance and military has noted that the weapons “don’t … change much in terms of strategic balance and military
capability.”capability.”~~111~~115 This, some analysts argue, is because U.S. competitors such as China and Russia This, some analysts argue, is because U.S. competitors such as China and Russia
already possess the ability to strike the United States with intercontinental ballistic missiles, already possess the ability to strike the United States with intercontinental ballistic missiles,
which, when launched in salvos, could overwhelm U.S. missile defenses.which, when launched in salvos, could overwhelm U.S. missile defenses.~~112~~116 Furthermore, these Furthermore, these
analysts note that in the case of hypersonic weapons, traditional principles of deterrence hold: “it analysts note that in the case of hypersonic weapons, traditional principles of deterrence hold: “it
is really a stretch to try to imagine any regime in the world that would be so suicidal that it would is really a stretch to try to imagine any regime in the world that would be so suicidal that it would

~~107 Ibid.~~
~~108 Ibid.~~
109 United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapons.
~~110~~even think threating to use—not to mention to actually use—hypersonic weapons against the United States ... would end well.”117 Section 1671 of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) directs the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, to submit to the congressional defense committees a report that examines How escalation risks will be addressed with regards to the use of strategic hypersonic weapons, including whether any risk escalation exercises have been conducted or are planned for the potential use of hypersonic weapons, and an analysis of the escalation risks posed by foreign hypersonic systems that are potentially nuclear and conventional dual-use capable weapons. Arms Control Some analysts who believe that hypersonic weapons could present a threat to strategic stability or inspire an arms race have argued that the United States should take measures to mitigate risks or limit the weapons’ proliferation. Proposed measures include expanding New START, negotiating new multilateral arms control agreements, and undertaking transparency and confidence-building measures.118 The New START Treaty, a strategic offensive arms treaty between the United States and Russia, does not currently cover weapons that fly on a ballistic trajectory for less than 50% of their flight, as do hypersonic glide vehicles and hypersonic cruise missiles.119 However, Article V of the treaty 113 United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapons. 114 For a history of legislative activity on conventional prompt global strike, see CRS Report R41464, For a history of legislative activity on conventional prompt global strike, see CRS Report R41464, Conventional
Prompt Global Strike and Long-Range Ballistic Missiles: Background and Issues, by Amy F. Woolf. , by Amy F. Woolf.
~~111~~115 Amy Mackinnon, “Russia’s New Missiles Are Aimed at the U.S.,” Amy Mackinnon, “Russia’s New Missiles Are Aimed at the U.S.,” Foreign Policy, March 5, 2019, , March 5, 2019,
https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/03/05/russias-new-missiles-are-aimed-at-you-weapons-hypersonic-putin-united-states-https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/03/05/russias-new-missiles-are-aimed-at-you-weapons-hypersonic-putin-united-states-
inf/. inf/.
~~112~~116 David Axe, “How the U.S. Is Quietly Winning the Hypersonic Arms Race,” David Axe, “How the U.S. Is Quietly Winning the Hypersonic Arms Race,” The Daily Beast, January 16, 2019, , January 16, 2019,
https://www.thedailybeast.com/how-the-us-is-quietly-winning-the-hypersonic-arms-race. See also Mark B. Schneider, https://www.thedailybeast.com/how-the-us-is-quietly-winning-the-hypersonic-arms-race. See also Mark B. Schneider,
“Moscow’s Development of Hypersonic Missiles,” p. 14. “Moscow’s Development of Hypersonic Missiles,” p. 14.
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~~even think threating to use—not to mention to actually use—hypersonic weapons against the~~
~~United States ... would end well.”113~~
~~Arms Control~~
~~Some analysts who believe that hypersonic weapons could present a threat to strategic stability or~~
~~inspire an arms race have argued that the United States should take measures to mitigate risks or~~
~~limit the weapons’ proliferation. Proposed measures include expanding New START, negotiating~~
~~new multilateral arms control agreements, and undertaking transparency and confidence-building~~
~~measures.114~~
~~The New START Treaty, a strategic offensive arms treaty between the United States and Russia,~~
~~does not currently cover weapons that fly on a ballistic trajectory for less than 50% of their flight,~~
~~as do hypersonic glide vehicles and hypersonic cruise missiles.115 However, Article V of the treaty~~
117 Jyri Raitasalo, “Hypersonic Weapons are No Game-Changer,” The National Interest, January 5, 2019, https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/hypersonic-weapons-are-no-game-changer-40632. 118 See United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapon; and Richard H. Speier et al., Hypersonic Missile Proliferation. 119 In some cases, hypersonic glide vehicles may be launched from intercontinental ballistic missiles that are already covered by New START, as is reported to be the case with Russia’s Avangard HGV. See Rachel S. Cohen, “Hypersonic Weapons: Strategic Asset or Tactical Tool?” Congressional Research Service 20 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress states that “when a Party believes that a new kind of strategic offensive arm is emerging, that states that “when a Party believes that a new kind of strategic offensive arm is emerging, that
Party shall have the right to raise the question of such a strategic offensive arm for consideration Party shall have the right to raise the question of such a strategic offensive arm for consideration
in the Bilateral Consultative Commission (BCC).” Accordingly, some legal experts hold that the in the Bilateral Consultative Commission (BCC).” Accordingly, some legal experts hold that the
United States could raise the issue in the BCC of negotiating to include hypersonic weapons in United States could raise the issue in the BCC of negotiating to include hypersonic weapons in
the New START limits.the New START limits.~~116~~120 However, because New START is due to expire in However, because New START is due to expire in ~~2021, unless~~
~~extended through 2026, this solution is likely to be temporary.117~~2026, this may be a short-term solution.121
As an alternative, some analysts have proposed negotiating a new international arms control As an alternative, some analysts have proposed negotiating a new international arms control
agreement that would institute a moratorium or ban on hypersonic weapon testing. These analysts agreement that would institute a moratorium or ban on hypersonic weapon testing. These analysts
argue that a test ban would be a “highly verifiable” and “highly effective” means of preventing a argue that a test ban would be a “highly verifiable” and “highly effective” means of preventing a
potential arms race and preserving strategic stability.potential arms race and preserving strategic stability.~~118~~122 Other analysts have countered that a test Other analysts have countered that a test
ban would be infeasible, as “no clear technical distinction can be made between hypersonic ban would be infeasible, as “no clear technical distinction can be made between hypersonic
missiles and other conventional capabilities that are less prompt, have shorter ranges, and also missiles and other conventional capabilities that are less prompt, have shorter ranges, and also
have the potential to undermine nuclear deterrence.”have the potential to undermine nuclear deterrence.”~~119~~123 These analysts have instead proposed These analysts have instead proposed
international transparency and confidence-building measures, such as exchanging weapons data; international transparency and confidence-building measures, such as exchanging weapons data;
conducting joint technical studies; “providing advance notices of tests; choosing separate, conducting joint technical studies; “providing advance notices of tests; choosing separate,
distinctive launch locations for tests of hypersonic missiles; and placing restraints on sea-based distinctive launch locations for tests of hypersonic missiles; and placing restraints on sea-based
tests.”tests.”~~120~~124 120

~~113 Jyri Raitasalo, “Hypersonic Weapons are No Game-Changer,” The National Interest, January 5, 2019,~~
~~https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/hypersonic-weapons-are-no-game-changer-40632.~~
~~114 See United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapon; and Richard H. Speier et al.,~~ ~~Hypersonic~~
~~Missile Proliferation.~~
~~115 In some cases, hypersonic glide vehicles may be launched from intercontinental ballistic missiles that are already~~
~~covered by New START, as is reported to be the case with Russia’s Avangard HGV. See Rachel S. Cohen,~~
~~“Hypersonic Weapons: Strategic Asset or Tactical Tool?”~~
~~116~~ James Acton notes: “during [New START] negotiations, Russia argued that boost-glide weapons might constitute ‘a James Acton notes: “during [New START] negotiations, Russia argued that boost-glide weapons might constitute ‘a
new kind of strategic offensive arm,’ in which case they would trigger bilateral discussions about whether and how new kind of strategic offensive arm,’ in which case they would trigger bilateral discussions about whether and how
they would be regulated by the treaty—a position [then] rejected by the United States.” James M. Acton, they would be regulated by the treaty—a position [then] rejected by the United States.” James M. Acton, Silver Bullet?:
Asking the Right Questions about Conventional Prompt Global Strike, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, , Carnegie Endowment for International Peace,
2013, p. 139, https://carnegieendowment.org/files/cpgs.pdf. 2013, p. 139, https://carnegieendowment.org/files/cpgs.pdf.
~~117~~121 CRS Report R41219, CRS Report R41219, The New START Treaty: Central Limits and Key Provisions, by Amy F. Woolf. , by Amy F. Woolf.
~~118~~122 Mark Gubrud, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?” Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, August 6, 2015, Mark Gubrud, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?” Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, August 6, 2015,
https://thebulletin.org/roundtable/test-ban-for-hypersonic-missiles/. https://thebulletin.org/roundtable/test-ban-for-hypersonic-missiles/.
~~119~~123 Tong Zhao, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?” Tong Zhao, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?”
~~120~~124 Rajaram Nagappa, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?”; see also James M. Acton, Rajaram Nagappa, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?”; see also James M. Acton, Silver Bullet?, pp. 134-138. , pp. 134-138.
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Appendix. U.S. Hypersonic Testing ~~Infrastructure121~~Infrastructure125
Table A-1. DOD Hypersonic Ground Test Facilities
Facility
Capability
Location
Air Force Arnold Engineering and Air Force Arnold Engineering and
Tunnel A: 40-inch Mach 1.5-5.5; up Tunnel A: 40-inch Mach 1.5-5.5; up
Arnold AFB, TN Arnold AFB, TN
Development Complex (AEDC) von Development Complex (AEDC) von
to 290 °F to 290 °F
Karman Gas Dynamics Facility Karman Gas Dynamics Facility
Tunnel B: 50-inch Mach 6 and 8; up Tunnel B: 50-inch Mach 6 and 8; up
Tunnels A/B/C Tunnels A/B/C
to 900 °F to 900 °F
Tunnel C: 50-inch Mach 10; up to Tunnel C: 50-inch Mach 10; up to
1700 °F 1700 °F
Air Force AEDC High-Enthalpy Air Force AEDC High-Enthalpy
Simulate thermal and pressure Simulate thermal and pressure
Arnold AFB, TN Arnold AFB, TN
Aerothermal Test Arc-Heated Aerothermal Test Arc-Heated
environments at speeds of up to environments at speeds of up to
Facilities H1, H2, H3 Facilities H1, H2, H3
Mach 8 Mach 8
Air Force AEDC Tunnel 9 Air Force AEDC Tunnel 9
59-inch Mach 7, 8,10, 14, and18; up 59-inch Mach 7, 8,10, 14, and18; up
White Oak, MD White Oak, MD
to 2900 °F to 2900 °F
Air Force AEDC Aerodynamic and Air Force AEDC Aerodynamic and
Mach 3.1-7.2; up to 1300 °F Mach 3.1-7.2; up to 1300 °F
Arnold AFB, TN Arnold AFB, TN
Propulsion Test Unit Propulsion Test Unit
Air Force AEDC Aeroballistic Range Air Force AEDC Aeroballistic Range
Launches projectiles of up to 8 Launches projectiles of up to 8
Arnold AFB, TN Arnold AFB, TN
G G
inches in diameter at speeds of up inches in diameter at speeds of up
to Mach 20 to Mach 20
~~Hol oman~~Holloman High Speed Test Track High Speed Test Track
59,971 ft. track; launches 59,971 ft. track; launches
~~Hol oman~~Holloman AFB, NM AFB, NM
projectiles at speeds of up to Mach projectiles at speeds of up to Mach
8 8
Air Force Research Laboratory Air Force Research Laboratory
Mach 3-7 Mach 3-7
Wright-Patterson AFB, OH Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
(AFRL) Cells 18, 22 (AFRL) Cells 18, 22
AFRL Laser Hardened Materials AFRL Laser Hardened Materials
High-temperature materials testing High-temperature materials testing
Wright-Patterson AFB, OH Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
Evaluation Laboratory (LHMEL) Evaluation Laboratory (LHMEL)
AFRL Mach 6 High Reynolds AFRL Mach 6 High Reynolds
10-inch Mach 6 10-inch Mach 6
Wright-Patterson AFB, OH Wright-Patterson AFB, OH
Number (Re) Facility Number (Re) Facility
Test Resource Management Center Test Resource Management Center
Up to Mach 8; up to 4040 °F Up to Mach 8; up to 4040 °F
Arnold AFB, TN Arnold AFB, TN
Hypersonic Aeropropulsion Clean Hypersonic Aeropropulsion Clean
Air Test-bed Facility Air Test-bed Facility
Source: (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al. Air Force AEDC Tunnel 9 was upgraded in 2019 to enable Mach 18 (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al. Air Force AEDC Tunnel 9 was upgraded in 2019 to enable Mach 18
testing. See “Department of Defense Press Briefing on Hypersonics,” March 2, 2020, https://www.defense.gov/testing. See “Department of Defense Press Briefing on Hypersonics,” March 2, 2020, https://www.defense.gov/
Newsroom/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/2101062/department-of-defense-press-briefing-on-hypersonics/. Newsroom/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/2101062/department-of-defense-press-briefing-on-hypersonics/.

~~121~~125 The following information is derived from the 2014 report (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al., The following information is derived from the 2014 report (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al., (U) Study on the
Ability of the U.S. Test and Evaluation Infrastructure, and therefore, may not be current. Permission to use this material , and therefore, may not be current. Permission to use this material
has been granted by the Office of Science and Technology Policy. has been granted by the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
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Table A-2. DOD Open-Air Ranges
Range
Location
Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile
Kwajalein Kwajalein ~~Atol~~ Atoll, Republic of the , Republic of the
Defense Test Site Defense Test Site
Marshall Islands Marshall Islands
Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF)
Kauai, HI Kauai, HI
Western Range, 30th Space Wing Western Range, 30th Space Wing
Vandenberg AFB, CA Vandenberg AFB, CA
Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons
Point Mugu and China Lake, CA Point Mugu and China Lake, CA
(NAWC) Division (NAWC) Division
White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) White Sands Missile Range (WSMR)
New Mexico New Mexico
Eastern Range, 45th Space Wing Eastern Range, 45th Space Wing
Cape Canaveral Air Force Cape Canaveral Air Force
Station/Patrick AFB/Kennedy Station/Patrick AFB/Kennedy
Space Center, FL Space Center, FL
NASA Wallops Flight Facility NASA Wallops Flight Facility
Wallops Island, VA Wallops Island, VA
Pacific Spaceport Complex (formerly Pacific Spaceport Complex (formerly
Kodiak Island, AK Kodiak Island, AK
Kodiak Launch Complex) Kodiak Launch Complex)
NAWC Weapons Division R-2508 NAWC Weapons Division R-2508
Edwards AFB, CA Edwards AFB, CA
Complex Complex
Utah Test and Training Range Utah Test and Training Range
Utah Utah
Nevada Test and Training Range Nevada Test and Training Range
Nevada Nevada
Source: (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al. (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al.

Table A-3. DOD Mobile Assets
Asset
Navy Mobile Instrumentation Navy Mobile Instrumentation
System System
PMRF Mobile At-sea Sensor System PMRF Mobile At-sea Sensor System
MDA Mobile Instrumentation MDA Mobile Instrumentation
System System Pacific Collector
MDA Mobile Instrumentation MDA Mobile Instrumentation
System System Pacific Tracker
Kwajalein Mobile Range Safety Kwajalein Mobile Range Safety
System 2 System 2
United States Navy Ship United States Navy Ship Lorenzen
missile range instrumentation ship missile range instrumentation ship
Sea-based X-band Radar Sea-based X-band Radar
Aircraft Mobile Instrumentation Aircraft Mobile Instrumentation
Systems Systems
Transportable Range Augmentation Transportable Range Augmentation
and Control System and Control System
Re-locatable MPS-36 Radar Re-locatable MPS-36 Radar
Transportable Telemetry System Transportable Telemetry System
Source: (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al. (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al.
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Table A-4. NASA Research-Related Facilities
Facility
Capability

Location
Ames Research Center (ARC) High-temperature Ames Research Center (ARC) High-temperature

Mountain View, CA Mountain View, CA
Arc Jet Complex Arc Jet Complex
materials testing materials testing
ARC Hypervelocity Free ARC Hypervelocity Free
Launches Launches ~~projectiles at~~
projectiles at Mountain View, CA Mountain View, CA
Flight Facilities Flight Facilities
speeds of up to Mach 23 speeds of up to Mach 23
Langley Research Center Langley Research Center
31-inch Mach 10, 20-inch 31-inch Mach 10, 20-inch

Hampton, VA Hampton, VA
(LaRC) Aerothermodynamics (LaRC) Aerothermodynamics
Mach 6, and 15-inch Mach Mach 6, and 15-inch Mach
Laboratory Laboratory
6 6
LaRC 8-foot High LaRC 8-foot High
96-inch Mach 5 and Mach 96-inch Mach 5 and Mach

Hampton, VA Hampton, VA
Temperature Tunnel Temperature Tunnel
6.5 6.5
LaRC Scramjet Test Complex LaRC Scramjet Test Complex
Up to Mach 8 and up to Up to Mach 8 and up to

Hampton, VA Hampton, VA
4740 °F 4740 °F
LaRC HyPulse Facility LaRC HyPulse Facility
Currently inactive Currently inactive

Long Island, NY Long Island, NY
Glenn Research Center Glenn Research Center
Mach 5, 6, and 7 and up to Mach 5, 6, and 7 and up to
Sandusky, OH Sandusky, OH
(GRC) Plumbrook Hypersonic 3830 °F (GRC) Plumbrook Hypersonic 3830 °F
Tunnel Facility Arc Jet Facility Tunnel Facility Arc Jet Facility
GRC Propulsion Systems GRC Propulsion Systems
Mach 6 Mach 6

Cleveland, OH Cleveland, OH
Laboratory 4 Laboratory 4
GRC 1’ x 1’ Supersonic Wind GRC 1’ x 1’ Supersonic Wind
12-inch Mach 1.3-6 (10 12-inch Mach 1.3-6 (10

Cleveland, OH Cleveland, OH
Tunnel Tunnel
discrete airspeeds) and up discrete airspeeds) and up
to 640 °F to 640 °F
Source: (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al. (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al.

Table A-5. Department of Energy Research-Related Facilities
Facility
Capability
Location
Sandia National Laboratories Solar Sandia National Laboratories Solar
High-temperature materials testing High-temperature materials testing
Albuquerque, NM Albuquerque, NM
Thermal Test Facility Thermal Test Facility
and aerodynamic heating simulation and aerodynamic heating simulation
Sandia National Laboratories Sandia National Laboratories
18-inch Mach 5, 8, and 14 18-inch Mach 5, 8, and 14
Albuquerque, NM Albuquerque, NM
Hypersonic Wind Tunnel Hypersonic Wind Tunnel
Source: (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al. (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al.

Table A-6. Industry/Academic Research-Related Facilities
Facility
Capability
Location
CUBRC Large Energy National CUBRC Large Energy National
LENS 1: Mach 6-22 LENS 1: Mach 6-22
Buffalo, NY Buffalo, NY
Shock (LENS)-1/-II/-XX Tunnels Shock (LENS)-1/-II/-XX Tunnels
LENS II: Mach 2-12 LENS II: Mach 2-12
LENS XX: Atmospheric re-entry LENS XX: Atmospheric re-entry
simulation simulation
ATK-GASL Test Bay 4 ATK-GASL Test Bay 4

Boeing Polysonic Wind Tunnel Boeing Polysonic Wind Tunnel
48-inch up to Mach 5 48-inch up to Mach 5
St. Louis, MO St. Louis, MO
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Lockheed Martin High Speed Wind Lockheed Martin High Speed Wind
48-inch Mach .3-5 48-inch Mach .3-5
Dallas, TX Dallas, TX
Tunnel Tunnel
Boeing/Air Force Office of Scientific 9.5-inch Mach 6 Boeing/Air Force Office of Scientific 9.5-inch Mach 6
West Lafayette, IN West Lafayette, IN
Research (AFOSR) Quiet Tunnel at Research (AFOSR) Quiet Tunnel at
Purdue University Purdue University
AFOSR-University of Notre Dame AFOSR-University of Notre Dame
24-inch Mach 6 24-inch Mach 6
Notre Dame, IN Notre Dame, IN
Quiet Tunnel Quiet Tunnel
Sources: (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al.; Oriana Pawlyk, “Air Force Expanding Hypersonic Technology (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al.; Oriana Pawlyk, “Air Force Expanding Hypersonic Technology
Testing”; University of Arizona, “Mach 5 Quiet Ludwieg Tube”; and Ashley Tressel, “Army to open hypersonic Testing”; University of Arizona, “Mach 5 Quiet Ludwieg Tube”; and Ashley Tressel, “Army to open hypersonic
testing facility.” testing facility.”
Notes: Hypersonic wind tunnels are under construction at the Hypersonic wind tunnels are under construction at the ~~fol owing~~following universities: Texas A&M University universities: Texas A&M University
(Mach 10 quiet tunnel expected to be complete in 2021), the University of Arizona (Mach 5 quiet tunnel (Mach 10 quiet tunnel expected to be complete in 2021), the University of Arizona (Mach 5 quiet tunnel
expected to be complete in 2021), Purdue University (Mach 8 quiet tunnel expected to be complete in 2022), expected to be complete in 2021), Purdue University (Mach 8 quiet tunnel expected to be complete in 2022),
and the University of Notre Dame (Mach 10 quiet tunnel expected to be complete in 2023). Additional and the University of Notre Dame (Mach 10 quiet tunnel expected to be complete in 2023). Additional
universities, such as the University of Maryland, the California Institute of Technology, the Georgia Institute of universities, such as the University of Maryland, the California Institute of Technology, the Georgia Institute of
Technology, the Air Force Academy, the University of Tennessee Space Institute, and Virginia Polytechnic Technology, the Air Force Academy, the University of Tennessee Space Institute, and Virginia Polytechnic
Institute and State University, also maintain experimental hypersonic facilities or conduct hypersonic research. Institute and State University, also maintain experimental hypersonic facilities or conduct hypersonic research.

Author Information

Kelley M. Sayler Kelley M. Sayler

Analyst in Advanced Technology and Global Analyst in Advanced Technology and Global
Security Security

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