Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Changes from October 27, 2022 to December 13, 2022

This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with ~~red strikethrough~~ and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with blue.

Hypersonic Weapons:
~~October 27~~December 13, 2022 , 2022
Background and Issues for Congress
Kelley M. Sayler
The United States has actively pursued the development of hypersonic weapons—maneuvering The United States has actively pursued the development of hypersonic weapons—maneuvering
Analyst in Advanced Analyst in Advanced
weapons that fly at speeds of at least Mach 5—as a part of its conventional prompt global strike weapons that fly at speeds of at least Mach 5—as a part of its conventional prompt global strike
Technology and Global Technology and Global
program since the early 2000s. In recent years, the United States has focused such efforts on program since the early 2000s. In recent years, the United States has focused such efforts on
Security Security
developing hypersonic glide vehicles, which are launched from a rocket before gliding to a developing hypersonic glide vehicles, which are launched from a rocket before gliding to a

target, and hypersonic cruise missiles, which are powered by high-speed, air-breathing engines target, and hypersonic cruise missiles, which are powered by high-speed, air-breathing engines
during flight. As former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former Commander of during flight. As former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former Commander of

U.S. Strategic Command General John Hyten has stated, these weapons could enable 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 threats [such as road-mobile missiles] “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, on the other hand, contend that hypersonic 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. military capability, and are unnecessary for deterrence. weapons lack defined mission requirements, contribute little to U.S. military capability, and are unnecessary for deterrence.
Funding for hypersonic weapons has been relatively restrained in the past; however, both the Pentagon and Congress have 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 systems. This is due, in part, shown a growing interest in pursuing the development and near-term deployment of hypersonic systems. This is due, in part,
to the advances in these technologies in Russia and China, both of which have a number of hypersonic weapons programs to the advances in these technologies in Russia and China, both of which have a number of hypersonic weapons programs
and have likely fielded operational hypersonic glide vehicles—potentially armed with nuclear warheads. Most U.S. and have likely fielded operational hypersonic glide vehicles—potentially armed with nuclear warheads. 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 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 will likely require greater accuracy and will be more technically challenging to develop than 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. nuclear-armed Chinese and Russian systems.
The Pentagon’s FY2023 budget request for hypersonic research is $4.7 billion—up from $3.8 billion in the FY2022 request. The Pentagon’s FY2023 budget request for hypersonic research is $4.7 billion—up from $3.8 billion in the FY2022 request.
The Missile Defense Agency additionally requested $225.5 million for hypersonic defense. At present, the Department of The Missile Defense Agency additionally requested $225.5 million for hypersonic defense. At present, the Department of
Defense (DOD) has not established any programs of record for hypersonic weapons, suggesting that it may not have Defense (DOD) has not established any programs of record for hypersonic weapons, suggesting that it may not have
approved either mission requirements for the systems or long-term funding plans. Indeed, as Principal Director for approved either mission requirements for the systems or long-term funding plans. Indeed, as Principal Director for
Hypersonics (Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering) Mike White has stated, DOD has not 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 the evaluation of 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. potential weapon system concepts and mission sets.
As Congress reviews the Pentagon’s plans for U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, it might consider questions about the 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 arms control. rationale for hypersonic weapons, their expected costs, and their implications for strategic stability and arms control.
Potential questions include the following: Potential questions include the following:
 What mission(s) will hypersonic weapons be used for? Are hypersonic weapons the most cost-effective  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 operational doctrine means of executing these potential missions? How will they be incorporated into joint operational doctrine
and concepts? and concepts?
 Given the lack of defined mission requirements for hypersonic weapons, how should Congress evaluate  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 for hypersonic funding requests for hypersonic weapons programs or the balance of funding requests for hypersonic
weapons programs, enabling technologies, and supporting test infrastructure? Is an acceleration of research weapons programs, enabling technologies, and supporting test infrastructure? Is an acceleration of research
on hypersonic weapons, enabling technologies, or hypersonic missile defense options both necessary and on hypersonic weapons, enabling technologies, or hypersonic missile defense options both necessary and
technologically feasible? 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 multilateral  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 activities? arms control agreements, or undertaking transparency and confidence-building activities?

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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 advances in these technologies in Russia and China, leading to a heightened focus in the to advances 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 indicates 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 glide that both China and Russia have conducted numerous successful tests of hypersonic glide
vehicles and likely fielded an operational capability. vehicles 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, at https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/18-Technologies to Meet Emerging Threats, April 18, 2018, at 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, at Reveals Research on ICBM-Range Hypersonic Glide Vehicle,” Aviation Week, August 18, 2020, at
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.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

1 1

link to page link to page 67 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

(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).6 There are two primary categories of hypersonic weapons: times the speed of sound).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 former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and maneuver en route to their destination. As former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and
former Commander of U.S. Strategic Command General John Hyten has stated, hypersonic former 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 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 time-critical 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 access, or not preferred.”8 Conventional hypersonic weapons use only kinetic energy—energy
derived from motion—to destroy unhardened targets or, potentially, underground facilities.9 derived from 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 At a minimum, the United States, Russia, China, Australia, India, France, Germany, and Japan are developing 6 At a minimum, the United States, Russia, China, Australia, India, France, Germany, and Japan are developing
hypersonic weapons technology. See Richard H. Speier et al., hypersonic weapons technology. See Richard H. Speier et al., Hypersonic Missile Proliferation: Hindering the Spread
of a New Class of Weapons, RAND Corporation, 2017, at https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR2137.html; , RAND Corporation, 2017, at https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RR2137.html;
and Mike Yeo, “Japan unveils its hypersonic weapons plans,” and Mike Yeo, “Japan unveils its hypersonic weapons plans,” Defense News, March 14, 2020. March 14, 2020.
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, at https://www.armed-Strategic Command and United States Northern Command, February 26, 2019, at https://www.armed-
services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Hyten_02-26-19.pdf. services.senate.gov/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, at https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Interactive/2018/11-, at 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. .
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2 2

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 decisionmakers assessing their response This delayed detection compresses the timeline for decisionmakers 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 weapons14—could theoretically present viable options for interceptors or directed energy weapons14—could theoretically present viable options for
defending against hypersonic weapons in the future.15 Indeed, the defending against hypersonic weapons in the future.15 Indeed, the 2019 Missile Defense Review
notes that “such sensors take advantage of the large area viewable from space for improved notes that “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 tracking and potentially targeting of advanced threats, including HGVs and hypersonic cruise
missiles.”16 missiles.”16

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, at , December 13, 2018, at
https://dod.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1712954/dod-scaling-up-effort-to-develop-hypersonics/; see also U.S. https://dod.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1712954/dod-scaling-up-effort-to-develop-hypersonics/; see also U.S.
Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of Michael Griffin,” Hearing on New Technologies to Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of Michael Griffin,” Hearing on New Technologies to
Meet Emerging Threats, April 18, 2018, at https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/18-40_04-18-18.pdf, Meet Emerging Threats, April 18, 2018, at https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/18-40_04-18-18.pdf,
and U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of John E. Hyten,” Hearing on United States and 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, at https://www.armed-Strategic Command and United States Northern Command, February 26, 2019, at https://www.armed-
services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Hyten_02-26-19.pdf. services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Hyten_02-26-19.pdf.
14 Section 1664 of the FY2022 NDAA (P.L. 117-81) granted the “Director of the Missile Defense Agency the authority 14 Section 1664 of the FY2022 NDAA (P.L. 117-81) granted the “Director of the Missile Defense Agency the authority
to budget for, direct, and manage directed energy programs applicable for ballistic and hypersonic missile defense to budget for, direct, and manage directed energy programs applicable for ballistic and hypersonic missile defense
missions, in coordination with other directed energy efforts of the Department of Defense.” missions, in coordination with other directed energy efforts of the Department of Defense.”
15 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of Michael Griffin,” Hearing on New 15 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of Michael Griffin,” Hearing on New
Technologies to Meet Emerging Threats, April 18, 2018, at https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/18-Technologies to Meet Emerging Threats, April 18, 2018, at https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/18-
40_04-18-18.pdf; and U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Armed Services, “Testimony of John E. Hyten,” Hearing 40_04-18-18.pdf; and 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, at https://www.armed-on United States Strategic Command and United States Northern Command, February 26, 2019, at https://www.armed-
services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Hyten_02-26-19.pdf. services.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Hyten_02-26-19.pdf.
16 Department of Defense, 16 Department of Defense, 2019 Missile Defense Review, p. XVI, at https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Interactive/, p. XVI, at https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Interactive/
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

3 3

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

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.17 As physicist and nuclear expert James Acton explains, “point-area hypersonic weapons defense.17 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
would need an unaffordable number of THAAD batteries.”18 In addition, some analysts have would need an unaffordable number of THAAD batteries.”18 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.”19 “processing data quickly enough to respond to and neutralize an incoming hypersonic threat.”19
(For additional information on hypersonic missile defense, see CRS In Focus IF11623, (For additional information on hypersonic missile defense, see CRS In Focus IF11623,
Hypersonic Missile Defense: Issues for Congress, by Kelley M. Sayler.) , by Kelley M. Sayler.)
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.20 Those who support these development efforts several Air Force, Army, and DARPA programs.20 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.21 In recognition of this, the the foundation of U.S. competitors’ anti-access/area denial strategies.21 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.”22 Similarly, the “[ensuring the United States] will be able to fight and win the wars of the future.”22 Similarly, the
House Armed Services Committee’s bipartisan House Armed Services Committee’s bipartisan Future of Defense Task Force Report notes that notes that
hypersonic weapons could present challenges to the United States in the years to come.23 hypersonic weapons could present challenges to the United States in the years to come.23
Programs
Unlike programs in China and Russia, U.S. hypersonic weapons are to be conventionally armed. Unlike programs in China and Russia, 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 As a result, U.S. hypersonic weapons will likely require greater accuracy and will be more

2018/11-2019-Missile-Defense-Review/The%202019%20MDR_Executive%20Summary.pdf. 2018/11-2019-Missile-Defense-Review/The%202019%20MDR_Executive%20Summary.pdf.
17 See James M. Acton, “Hypersonic Weapons Explainer,” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, April 2, 2018, 17 See James M. Acton, “Hypersonic Weapons Explainer,” Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, April 2, 2018,
at https://carnegieendowment.org/2018/04/02/hypersonic-weapons-explainer-pub-75957; and Margot van Loon, at https://carnegieendowment.org/2018/04/02/hypersonic-weapons-explainer-pub-75957; and Margot van Loon,
“Hypersonic Weapons: A Primer.” “Hypersonic Weapons: A Primer.”
18 Acton, “Hypersonic Weapons Explainer.” 18 Acton, “Hypersonic Weapons Explainer.”
19 Margot van Loon, “Hypersonic Weapons: A Primer” in 19 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, at https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2019/, April 23, 2019, at https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2019/
04/23/hypersonic_weapons__a_threat_to_national_security_114358.html. 04/23/hypersonic_weapons__a_threat_to_national_security_114358.html.
20 For a full history of U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, see CRS Report R41464, 20 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.
21 Roger Zakheim and Tom Karako, “China’s Hypersonic Missile Advances and U.S. Defense Responses,” Remarks at 21 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.
22 Department of Defense, “Summary of the 2018 National Defense Strategy of The United States of America,” p. 3, at 22 Department of Defense, “Summary of the 2018 National Defense Strategy of The United States of America,” p. 3, at
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.
23 House Armed Services Committee, 23 House Armed Services Committee, Future of Defense Task Force Report 2020, September 2020, at , September 2020, at
https://armedservices.house.gov/_cache/files/2/6/26129500-d208-47ba-a9f7-25a8f82828b0/https://armedservices.house.gov/_cache/files/2/6/26129500-d208-47ba-a9f7-25a8f82828b0/
424EB2008281A3C79BA8C7EA71890AE9.future-of-defense-task-force-report.pdf. 424EB2008281A3C79BA8C7EA71890AE9.future-of-defense-task-force-report.pdf.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

4 4

link to page link to page 1314 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

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.24 times less accurate [than a conventionally-armed glider]” due to nuclear blast effects.24
According to open-source reporting, the United States is conducting research, development, test, According to open-source reporting, the United States is conducting research, development, test,
and evaluation (RDT&E) on a number of offensive hypersonic weapons and hypersonic and evaluation (RDT&E) on a number of offensive hypersonic weapons and hypersonic
technology programs, including the following (seetechnology programs, including the following (see Table 1): :
 U.S. Navy—Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS);  U.S. Navy—Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS);
 U.S. Navy—Offensive Anti-Surface Warfare Increment 2 (OASuW Inc 2), also  U.S. Navy—Offensive Anti-Surface Warfare Increment 2 (OASuW Inc 2), also
known as Hypersonic Air-Launched OASuW (HALO); known as Hypersonic Air-Launched OASuW (HALO);
 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”);
 U.S. Air Force—Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM);  U.S. Air Force—Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM);
 DARPA—Tactical Boost Glide (TBG);  DARPA—Tactical Boost Glide (TBG);
 DARPA—Operational Fires (OpFires); and  DARPA—Operational Fires (OpFires); and
 DARPA—Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept follow-on (MoHAWC,  DARPA—Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept follow-on (MoHAWC,
pronounced “mohawk”). pronounced “mohawk”).
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.25 programs of record for hypersonic weapons.25
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 Hypersonic Glide Body for use across the services.26 The glide body is being adapted Common Hypersonic Glide Body for use across the services.26 The glide body is being adapted
from a Mach 6 Army prototype warhead, the Alternate Re-Entry System. The Navy’s from a Mach 6 Army prototype warhead, the Alternate Re-Entry System. The Navy’s
Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) is expected to pair the glide body with a booster system to Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) is expected to pair the glide body with a booster system to
create a common All Up Round (AUR) for use by both the Navy and Army. The first test of the create a common All Up Round (AUR) for use by both the Navy and Army. The first test of the
AUR, conducted in June 2022, resulted in failure.27 AUR, conducted in June 2022, resulted in failure.27
According to the Navy’s FY2023 budget documents, the Navy intends to conduct testing in According to the Navy’s FY2023 budget documents, the Navy intends to conduct testing in
support of CPS’s deployment on Zumwalt-class destroyers by FY2025.28 Although Navy officials support of CPS’s deployment on Zumwalt-class destroyers by FY2025.28 Although Navy officials
have previously noted plans to achieve “limited operating capability” on Ohio-class submarines have previously noted plans to achieve “limited operating capability” on Ohio-class submarines

24 James M. Acton, “China’s Advanced Weapons,” Testimony to the U.S. China Economic and Security Review 24 James M. Acton, “China’s Advanced Weapons,” Testimony to the U.S. China Economic and Security Review
Commission, February 23, 2017, at https://carnegieendowment.org/2017/02/23/china-s-advanced-weapons-pub-68095. Commission, February 23, 2017, at https://carnegieendowment.org/2017/02/23/china-s-advanced-weapons-pub-68095.
25 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics, But Only Prototypes,” 25 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics, But Only Prototypes,” Aviation Week, March , March
15, 2019, at https://aviationweek.com/defense/new-long-term-pentagon-plan-boosts-hypersonics-only-prototypes. 15, 2019, at https://aviationweek.com/defense/new-long-term-pentagon-plan-boosts-hypersonics-only-prototypes.
26 The services coordinate efforts on a Common Hypersonic Glide Body Board of Directors with rotating chairmanship. 26 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 , February
28, 2020, at https://breakingdefense.com/2020/02/army-ramps-up-funding-for-laser-shield-hypersonic-sword/. 28, 2020, at https://breakingdefense.com/2020/02/army-ramps-up-funding-for-laser-shield-hypersonic-sword/.
27 Jon Herskovitz and Anthony Capaccio, “US Hypersonic Missile Fails in Test in Fresh Setback for Program,” 27 Jon Herskovitz and Anthony Capaccio, “US Hypersonic Missile Fails in Test in Fresh Setback for Program,”
Bloomberg, June 29, 2022, at https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-06-30/us-hypersonic-missile-fails-in-, June 29, 2022, at https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-06-30/us-hypersonic-missile-fails-in-
test-in-fresh-setback-for-program. test-in-fresh-setback-for-program.
28 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research, 28 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1458, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1458, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/
Documents/23pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf. Documents/23pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

5 5

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

as early as 202529 and on Virginia-class submarines by FY2028, as well as to eventually field as early as 202529 and on Virginia-class submarines by FY2028, as well as to eventually field
hypersonic weapons on Burke-class destroyers, such plans are not reflected in FY2023 budget hypersonic weapons on Burke-class destroyers, such plans are not reflected in FY2023 budget
documents.30 The Navy is requesting $1.2 billion for CPS RDT&E in FY2023—a decrease of documents.30 The Navy is requesting $1.2 billion for CPS RDT&E in FY2023—a decrease of
$169 million from the FY2022 request and $120 million from the FY2022 appropriation.31 $169 million from the FY2022 request and $120 million from the FY2022 appropriation.31
The Navy is also developing the Offensive Anti-Surface Warfare Increment 2 (OASuW Inc 2), The Navy is also developing the Offensive Anti-Surface Warfare Increment 2 (OASuW Inc 2),
also known as Hypersonic Air-Launched OASuW (HALO)—a new start in FY2023.32 Although also known as Hypersonic Air-Launched OASuW (HALO)—a new start in FY2023.32 Although
few details about the program have been released publicly, HALO is likely to be compatible with few details about the program have been released publicly, HALO is likely to be compatible with
the Navy’s F/A-18 fighter jet.33 The Navy is requesting $92 million for HALO RDT&E in the Navy’s F/A-18 fighter jet.33 The Navy is requesting $92 million for HALO RDT&E in
FY2023.34 FY2023.34
U.S. Army
The Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) program is expected to pair the common The Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) program is expected to pair the common
glide vehicle with the Navy’s booster system. The system is intended to have a range of over glide vehicle with the Navy’s booster system. The system is intended to have a range of over
1,725 miles and “provide the Army with a prototype strategic attack weapon system to defeat 1,725 miles 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 A2/AD capabilities, suppress adversary Long Range Fires, and engage other high payoff/time
sensitive targets.”35 The Army is requesting $806 million in RDT&E for the program in sensitive targets.”35 The Army is requesting $806 million in RDT&E for the program in
FY2023—$394 million over the FY2022 request and $380 million over the FY2022 FY2023—$394 million over the FY2022 request and $380 million over the FY2022
appropriation.36 It plans to field an experimental prototype in FY2023 and transition to a program appropriation.36 It plans to field an experimental prototype in FY2023 and transition to a program

29 See Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research, 29 See Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1466, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1466, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/
Documents/22pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf; Department of the Navy, “Highlights of the Department of the Navy FY Documents/22pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf; Department of the Navy, “Highlights of the Department of the Navy FY
2021 Budget,” February 10, 2020, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Documents/21pres/Highlights_book.pdf; 2021 Budget,” February 10, 2020, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Documents/21pres/Highlights_book.pdf;
and Megan Eckstein, “Navy Says Hypersonic Weapons Coming to Subs in 5 Years,” and Megan Eckstein, “Navy Says Hypersonic Weapons Coming to Subs in 5 Years,” USNI News, November 17, 2020, , November 17, 2020,
at https://news.usni.org/2020/11/17/navy-says-hypersonic-weapons-coming-to-subs-in-5-years. at https://news.usni.org/2020/11/17/navy-says-hypersonic-weapons-coming-to-subs-in-5-years.
30 David B. Larter, “All US Navy destroyers will get hypersonic missiles, says Trump’s national security adviser,” 30 David B. Larter, “All US Navy destroyers will get hypersonic missiles, says Trump’s national security adviser,”
Defense News, October 21, 2020, at https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2020/10/21/all-us-navy-destroyers-will-get-, October 21, 2020, at https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2020/10/21/all-us-navy-destroyers-will-get-
hypersonic-missiles-trumps-national-security-advisor-says/. hypersonic-missiles-trumps-national-security-advisor-says/.
31 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research, 31 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1458, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1458, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/
Documents/23pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf. Documents/23pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf.
32 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research, 32 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1373, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1373, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/
Documents/23pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf. Documents/23pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf.
33 Joesph Trevithick, “Hypersonic Anti-Ship Cruise Missile Has To Be Ready By 2028 Navy Says,” 33 Joesph Trevithick, “Hypersonic Anti-Ship Cruise Missile Has To Be Ready By 2028 Navy Says,” The Drive, April , April
23, 2022, at https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/hypersonic-anti-ship-cruise-missile-has-to-be-ready-by-2028-23, 2022, at https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/hypersonic-anti-ship-cruise-missile-has-to-be-ready-by-2028-
navy-says. navy-says.
34 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research, 34 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Navy Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1373, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 1373, at https://www.secnav.navy.mil/fmc/fmb/
Documents/23pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf. Documents/23pres/RDTEN_BA4_Book.pdf.
35 Sydney J. Freedberg Jr., “Army Discloses Hypersonic LRHW Range Of 1,725 Miles; Watch Out China,” 35 Sydney J. Freedberg Jr., “Army Discloses Hypersonic LRHW Range Of 1,725 Miles; Watch Out China,” Breaking
Defense, May 12, 2021, at https://breakingdefense.com/2021/05/army-discloses-hypersonic-lrhw-range-of-1725-miles-, May 12, 2021, at https://breakingdefense.com/2021/05/army-discloses-hypersonic-lrhw-range-of-1725-miles-
watch-out-china/; https://breakingdefense.com/2019/03/army-sets-2023-hypersonic-flight-test-strategic-cannon-watch-out-china/; https://breakingdefense.com/2019/03/army-sets-2023-hypersonic-flight-test-strategic-cannon-
advances/; and Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research, advances/; and Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 639, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, p. 639, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/
Documents/BudgetMaterial/2022/Base%20Budget/rdte/RDTE_BA_4_FY_2022_PB.pdf. Documents/BudgetMaterial/2022/Base%20Budget/rdte/RDTE_BA_4_FY_2022_PB.pdf.
36 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research, 36 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, pp. 711-726, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget Activity 4, pp. 711-726, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/
72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2023/Base%20Budget/rdte/vol_2-Budget_Activity_4.pdf; and Department of Defense 72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2023/Base%20Budget/rdte/vol_2-Budget_Activity_4.pdf; and Department of Defense
Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation,
Volume II, Budget Activity 5D, p. 185, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2023/Volume II, Budget Activity 5D, p. 185, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2023/
Base%20Budget/rdte/vol_2-Budget_Activity_5D.pdf. Base%20Budget/rdte/vol_2-Budget_Activity_5D.pdf.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

6 6

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

of record in the fourth quarter of FY2024—a timeline that Army officials have termed “very, very of record in the fourth quarter of FY2024—a timeline that Army officials have termed “very, very
aggressive” and that will require the program to take on “a lot of risk.”37 The Army additionally aggressive” and that will require the program to take on “a lot of risk.”37 The Army additionally
requested $249 million for the procurement of LRHW ground support equipment in FY2023.38 requested $249 million for the procurement of LRHW ground support equipment in FY2023.38
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.39 miles.39 ~~Although~~ ARRW successfully completed a “captive carry” test flight in June 2019ARRW successfully completed a “captive carry” test flight in June 2019~~, it~~. It then then
experienced three successive failures before completing experienced three successive failures before completing ~~two~~three successful flight tests in 2022.40 successful flight tests in 2022.40 The most recent flight test, conducted in December 2022, was the first test of the full prototype operational ARRW.41 The Air Force has repeatedly pushed the timeline for ARRW and now states that ARRW could be operational “as early as fall 2023.”42 The Air Force~~The~~
~~Air Force continues to assert that, despite its history of failures, ARRW may still reach early~~
~~operational capability in late 2022 if it continues to have successful, on-schedule flight tests.41~~
~~The Air Force has~~ requested $115 million for ARRW RDT&E in FY2023—$123 million under requested $115 million for ARRW RDT&E in FY2023—$123 million under
the FY2022 request and $204 million under the FY2022 appropriation.the FY2022 request and $204 million under the FY2022 appropriation.4243 In addition, the Air In addition, the Air
Force requested $47 million for ARRW Force requested $47 million for ARRW ~~procurement in FY2023;43 however, Air Force officials~~
~~have stated that they will submit a reprogramming request to shift these funds to ARRW~~
~~RDT&E.44~~

37 Jon Harper, 37 Jon Harper, DefenseScoop, October 10, 2022, at https://defensescoop.com/2022/10/10/army-assuming-a-lot-of-risk-, October 10, 2022, at https://defensescoop.com/2022/10/10/army-assuming-a-lot-of-risk-
as-it-moves-to-field-hypersonic-weapons-by-end-of-fiscal-year/. See also Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) as-it-moves-to-field-hypersonic-weapons-by-end-of-fiscal-year/. See also Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY)
2023 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget 2023 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, Budget
Activity 4, pp. 705-709, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2023/Base%20Budget/Activity 4, pp. 705-709, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2023/Base%20Budget/
rdte/vol_2-Budget_Activity_4.pdf. rdte/vol_2-Budget_Activity_4.pdf.
38 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Missile Procurement, 38 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Army Justification Book of Missile Procurement,
p. 66, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2023/Base%20Budget/Procurement/p. 66, at https://www.asafm.army.mil/Portals/72/Documents/BudgetMaterial/2023/Base%20Budget/Procurement/
MSLS_ARMY.pdf. MSLS_ARMY.pdf.
39 ARRW is expected to be launched initially from the B-52H strategic bomber. Thomas Newdick, “Air Force Says 39 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, at , October 13, 2020, at
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.
40 Oriana Pawlyk, “Air Force’s Hypersonic ARRW Missile Fails First Flight Test,” 40 Oriana Pawlyk, “Air Force’s Hypersonic ARRW Missile Fails First Flight Test,” Military.com, April 6, 2021, at , April 6, 2021, at
https://www.military.com/daily-news/2021/04/06/air-forces-hypersonic-arrw-missile-fails-first-flight-test.html#:~:text=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; John A. Tirpak, In%20June%202019%2C%20the%20service,early%202020s%2C%20the%20release%20states; John A. Tirpak,
“Hypersonic ARRW Flies Successfully for Second Time, Completing Booster Tests,” “Hypersonic ARRW Flies Successfully for Second Time, Completing Booster Tests,” Air Force Magazine, July 13, , July 13,
2022, at https://www.airforcemag.com/hypersonic-arrw-flies-successfully-for-second-time-completing-booster-tests/. 2022, at https://www.airforcemag.com/hypersonic-arrw-flies-successfully-for-second-time-completing-booster-tests/.
41 41 Anthony Capaccio, “Hypersonic-Missile Failures Risk U.S. Chase of China, Russia,” Bloomberg~~, March 7~~Ilka Cole, “Air Force conducts first ARRW operational prototype missile test,” U.S. Air Force, December 12, 2022, at , 2022, at
~~https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-03-07/hypersonic-missile-failures-imperil-u-s-chase-of-china-russia.~~
~~42 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research,~~
~~Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 145, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY23/~~
~~RDTE_/FY23%20Air%20Force%20Research%20Development%20Test%20and%20Evaluation%20Vol%20II.pdf?~~
~~ver=LK67U_ThMsX7AwahfurKGw%3d%3d.~~
~~43 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Missile~~
~~Procurement, Volume I, p. 23, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY23/PROCUREMENT_/~~
~~FY23%20Air%20Force%20Missile%20Procurement.pdf?ver=QeRLpOSY7vcLmsKbr3C-Qw%3d%3d. The Air Force~~
~~requested $161 million in FY2022 for the procurement of an estimated 12 ARRW missiles. Congress authorized $116~~
~~million for ARRW procurement in the FY2022 NDAA (P.L. 117-81), noting that additional funds were “early to need.”~~
~~Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Missile Procurement,~~
~~Volume I, p. 19, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY22/PROCUREMENT_/FY22%20DAF%20J-~~
~~Book%20-%203020%20-%20Missile%20Proc.pdf?ver=GIEj1YH2GS-elMys1wLm1A%3d%3d.~~
~~https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY22/PROCUREMENT_/FY22 DAF J-Book - 3020 - Missile~~
~~Proc.pdf?ver=GIEj1YH2GS-elMys1wLm1A%3d%3d.~~
~~44 Valerie Insinna, “Air Force ditches plans to buy first hypersonic ARRW missile in FY23,” Breaking Defense, March~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

7

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

https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3243194/air-force-conducts-first-arrw-operational-prototype-missile-test/. 42 Nicole Ledbetter, “AFGSC takes next steps in making Air Force’s first hypersonic weapon,” U.S. Air Force 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs, December 4, 2022, at https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3234145/afgsc-takes-next-steps-in-making-air-forces-first-hypersonic-weapon/. As recently as March 2022, the Air Force asserted that ARRW could reach early operational capability in late 2022. See Anthony Capaccio, “Hypersonic-Missile Failures Risk U.S. Chase of China, Russia,” Bloomberg, March 7, 2022, at https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-03-07/hypersonic-missile-failures-imperil-u-s-chase-of-china-russia. 43 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 145, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY23/RDTE_/FY23%20Air%20Force%20Research%20Development%20Test%20and%20Evaluation%20Vol%20II.pdf?ver=LK67U_ThMsX7AwahfurKGw%3d%3d. Congressional Research Service 7 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress procurement in FY2023;44 however, Air Force officials have stated that they will submit a reprogramming request to shift these funds to ARRW RDT&E.45 In February 2020, the Air Force announced that it had cancelled its second hypersonic weapon 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 program, the Hypersonic Conventional Strike Weapon (HCSW), which had been expected to use
the common glide vehicle and booster system, due to budget pressures that forced it to choose the common glide vehicle and booster system, due to budget pressures that forced it to choose
between ARRW and HCSW.between ARRW and HCSW.4546 Then-Air Force acquisition chief Will Roper explained that ARRW 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] was selected because it 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 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.explained.4647 A senior Air Force official has since noted that a B-52 could potentially carry four A senior Air Force official has since noted that a B-52 could potentially carry four
ARRWs.ARRWs.4748
Finally, in FY2022, the Air Force launched the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) Finally, in FY2022, the Air Force launched the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM)
program to develop a hypersonic cruise missile that integrates Air Force and DARPA program to develop a hypersonic cruise missile that integrates Air Force and DARPA
technologies. Some reports indicate that HACM is intended to be launched from both bombers technologies. Some reports indicate that HACM is intended to be launched from both bombers
and fighter aircraft,and fighter aircraft,4849 with a senior Air Force official noting that a B-52 could potentially carry 20 with a senior Air Force official noting that a B-52 could potentially carry 20
HACMs or more.HACMs or more.4950 According to the Air Force, “the ability to execute HACM development is According to the Air Force, “the ability to execute HACM development is
contingent upon fully funded and successful predecessor capability development efforts.”contingent upon fully funded and successful predecessor capability development efforts.”5051 The The
Air Force requested $317 million for HACM in FY2023, up from $200 million in the FY2022 Air Force requested $317 million for HACM in FY2023, up from $200 million in the FY2022
request and $190 million in the FY2022 appropriation.request and $190 million in the FY2022 appropriation.51
~~The Air Force is also seeking information from industry on the Expendable Hypersonic Air-~~
~~Breathing Multi-Mission Demonstrator Program, alternatively known as Project Mayhem.~~
~~According to Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White, “Project Mayhem is to look at the~~
~~next step in what the opportunity space allows relative to hypersonic cruise missile systems” and~~
~~is intended to be capable of flying “significantly longer ranges than what we’re doing today.”52~~

52 44 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Missile Procurement, Volume I, p. 23, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY23/PROCUREMENT_/FY23%20Air%20Force%20Missile%20Procurement.pdf?ver=QeRLpOSY7vcLmsKbr3C-Qw%3d%3d. The Air Force requested $161 million in FY2022 for the procurement of an estimated 12 ARRW missiles. Congress authorized $116 million for ARRW procurement in the FY2022 NDAA (P.L. 117-81), noting that additional funds were “early to need.” Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Missile Procurement, Volume I, p. 19, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY22/PROCUREMENT_/FY22%20DAF%20J-Book%20-%203020%20-%20Missile%20Proc.pdf?ver=GIEj1YH2GS-elMys1wLm1A%3d%3d. https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY22/PROCUREMENT_/FY22 DAF J-Book - 3020 - Missile Proc.pdf?ver=GIEj1YH2GS-elMys1wLm1A%3d%3d. 45 Valerie Insinna, “Air Force ditches plans to buy first hypersonic ARRW missile in FY23,” Breaking Defense, March 29, 2022, at https://breakingdefense.com/2022/03/air-force-ditches-plans-to-buy-first-hypersonic-arrw-missile-in-fy23/. 29, 2022, at https://breakingdefense.com/2022/03/air-force-ditches-plans-to-buy-first-hypersonic-arrw-missile-in-fy23/.
4546 Valerie Insinna, “US Air Force kills one of its hypersonic weapons programs,” Valerie Insinna, “US Air Force kills one of its hypersonic weapons programs,” Defense News, February 10, 2020, at , February 10, 2020, at
https://www.defensenews.com/smr/federal-budget/2020/02/10/the-air-force-just-canceled-one-of-its-hypersonic-https://www.defensenews.com/smr/federal-budget/2020/02/10/the-air-force-just-canceled-one-of-its-hypersonic-
weapons-programs/. weapons-programs/.
4647 John A. Tirpak, “Roper: The ARRW Hypersonic Missile Better Option for USAF,” John A. Tirpak, “Roper: The ARRW Hypersonic Missile Better Option for USAF,” Air Force Magazine, March 2, , March 2,
2020, at https://www.airforcemag.com/arrw-beat-hcsw-because-its-smaller-better-for-usaf/. Tirpak additionally notes 2020, at 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 that “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.” to get the weapon to hypersonic speed.”
4748 John A. Tirpak, “Air Force Will Try Again to Launch ARRW Hypersonic Missile in July,” John A. Tirpak, “Air Force Will Try Again to Launch ARRW Hypersonic Missile in July,” Air Force Magazine, ,
June 3, 2021, at https://www.airforcemag.com/air-force-july-launch-arrw-hypersonic-missile/. June 3, 2021, at https://www.airforcemag.com/air-force-july-launch-arrw-hypersonic-missile/.
4849 FY2023 Air Force budget documents note that “the HACM program will prioritize integration on the F-15E platform FY2023 Air Force budget documents note that “the HACM program will prioritize integration on the F-15E platform
to enable quick entry into flight test.” to enable quick entry into flight test.”
4950 John A. Tirpak, “Air Force Will Try Again to Launch ARRW Hypersonic Missile in July,” John A. Tirpak, “Air Force Will Try Again to Launch ARRW Hypersonic Missile in July,” Air Force Magazine, ,
June 3, 2021, at https://www.airforcemag.com/air-force-july-launch-arrw-hypersonic-missile/. June 3, 2021, at https://www.airforcemag.com/air-force-july-launch-arrw-hypersonic-missile/.
5051 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 148, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY22/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 148, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY22/
RDTE_/FY22%20DAF%20J-Book%20-%203600%20-%20AF%20RDT%20and%20E%20Vol%20II.pdf?ver=RDTE_/FY22%20DAF%20J-Book%20-%203600%20-%20AF%20RDT%20and%20E%20Vol%20II.pdf?ver=
KpJJbVq68o32dSvkjuv_Iw%3d%3d. KpJJbVq68o32dSvkjuv_Iw%3d%3d.
5152 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research,
Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 145 and 161, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 145 and 161, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/
FY23/RDTE_/FY23/RDTE_/
FY23%20Air%20Force%20Research%20Development%20Test%20and%20Evaluation%20Vol%20II.pdf?ver=FY23%20Air%20Force%20Research%20Development%20Test%20and%20Evaluation%20Vol%20II.pdf?ver=
~~LK67U_ThMsX7AwahfurKGw%3d%3d; and Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Air~~
~~Force Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 139, at~~
~~https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY22/RDTE_/FY22%20DAF%20J-Book%20-%203600%20-~~
~~%20AF%20RDT%20and%20E%20Vol%20II.pdf?ver=KpJJbVq68o32dSvkjuv_Iw%3d%3d.~~
~~52 Mike White, Remarks at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, “Hypersonic Strike and Defense: A~~
~~Conversation with Mike White,” June 10, 2021, at https://www.csis.org/analysis/hypersonic-strike-and-defense-~~
~~conversation-mike-white.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

8

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

Congressional Research Service 8 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress The Air Force is also seeking information from industry on the Expendable Hypersonic Air-Breathing Multi-Mission Demonstrator Program, alternatively known as Project Mayhem. According to Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White, “Project Mayhem is to look at the next step in what the opportunity space allows relative to hypersonic cruise missile systems” and is intended to be capable of flying “significantly longer ranges than what we’re doing today.”53 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.5354
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.”5455 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
$30 million for TBG in FY2023—$20 million under the FY2022 request and appropriation.$30 million for TBG in FY2023—$20 million under the FY2022 request and appropriation.5556
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.” OpFires completed its defenses and rapidly and precisely engage critical time sensitive targets.” OpFires completed its
first flight test in July 2022.first flight test in July 2022.5657 DARPA requested and received $45 million for OpFires in FY2022, DARPA requested and received $45 million for OpFires in FY2022,
but did not request funds in FY2023, following the program’s completion.but did not request funds in FY2023, following the program’s completion.5758
DARPA has similarly concluded work on the Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept DARPA has similarly concluded work on the Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept
(HAWC), which, with Air Force support, sought “to develop and demonstrate critical (HAWC), which, with Air Force support, sought “to develop and demonstrate critical
~~technologies to enable an effective and affordable air-launched hypersonic cruise missile.”58~~
~~DARPA successfully tested HAWC in March and July 2022, launching the missile from a B-52~~
~~bomber.59 Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White has stated that hypersonic cruise~~
~~missiles like HAWC would be smaller than hypersonic glide vehicles and could therefore launch~~
~~from a wider range of platforms. Principal Director White has additionally noted that HAWC and~~

53 LK67U_ThMsX7AwahfurKGw%3d%3d; and Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Air Force Justification Book of Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Volume II, p. 139, at https://www.saffm.hq.af.mil/Portals/84/documents/FY22/RDTE_/FY22%20DAF%20J-Book%20-%203600%20-%20AF%20RDT%20and%20E%20Vol%20II.pdf?ver=KpJJbVq68o32dSvkjuv_Iw%3d%3d. 53 Mike White, Remarks at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, “Hypersonic Strike and Defense: A Conversation with Mike White,” June 10, 2021, at https://www.csis.org/analysis/hypersonic-strike-and-defense-conversation-mike-white. 54 See, for example, Rachel S. Cohen, “Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile Becomes High-Priority USAF Project,” Air See, for example, Rachel S. Cohen, “Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile Becomes High-Priority USAF Project,” Air
Force Magazine, October 13, 2020, at https://www.airforcemag.com/hypersonic-attack-cruise-missile-becomes-Force Magazine, October 13, 2020, at https://www.airforcemag.com/hypersonic-attack-cruise-missile-becomes-
highpriority-usaf-project/. highpriority-usaf-project/.
5455 “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, at , July 27, 2017, at
https://aviationweek.com/defense/us-air-force-plans-road-map-operational-hypersonics. https://aviationweek.com/defense/us-air-force-plans-road-map-operational-hypersonics.
5556 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 171, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 171, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/
fy2023/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2023.pdf; and fy2023/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2023.pdf; and
Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 158, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 158, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/
fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2022.pdf. fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2022.pdf.
5657 DARPA, “Operational Fires Program Successfully Completes First Flight Test,” July 13, 2022, at DARPA, “Operational Fires Program Successfully Completes First Flight Test,” July 13, 2022, at
https://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2022-07-13a. https://www.darpa.mil/news-events/2022-07-13a.
5758 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 172, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 172, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/
fy2023/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2023.pdf; and fy2023/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2023.pdf; and
Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 159, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 159, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/
fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2022.pdf. fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2022.pdf.
~~58 “Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) Program Information,” DARPA, at https://www.darpa.mil/~~
~~program/hypersonic-air-breathing-weapon-concept.~~
~~59 Oren Liebermann, “US tested hypersonic missile in mid-March but kept it quiet to avoid escalating tensions with~~
~~Russia,” CNN, April 5, 2022, at https://us.cnn.com/2022/04/04/politics/us-hypersonic-missile-test/index.html; and~~
~~Courtney Albon, “Raytheon hypersonic scramjet missile has another successful flight test,” Defense News, July 19,~~
~~2022, at https://www.defensenews.com/battlefield-tech/2022/07/19/darpas-hypersonic-scramjet-missile-logs-another-~~
~~flight-test-success/?utm_source=sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=dfn-ebb&SToverlay=2002c2d9-c344-~~
~~4bbb-8610-e5794efcfa7d.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

9

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

Congressional Research Service 9 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress technologies to enable an effective and affordable air-launched hypersonic cruise missile.”59 DARPA successfully tested HAWC in March and July 2022, launching the missile from a B-52 bomber.60 Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White has stated that hypersonic cruise missiles like HAWC would be smaller than hypersonic glide vehicles and could therefore launch from a wider range of platforms. Principal Director White has additionally noted that HAWC and other hypersonic cruise missiles could integrate seekers more easily than hypersonic glide other hypersonic cruise missiles could integrate seekers more easily than hypersonic glide
vehicles.vehicles.6061 DARPA requested and received $10 million to develop HAWC in FY2022. DARPA requested and received $10 million to develop HAWC in FY2022.6162 DARPA DARPA
requested $60 million for MoHAWC, the successor program to HAWC, in FY2023.requested $60 million for MoHAWC, the successor program to HAWC, in FY2023.6263 Like Like
HAWC, MoHAWC seeks to develop technologies for use in future air-launched hypersonic cruise HAWC, MoHAWC seeks to develop technologies for use in future air-launched hypersonic cruise
missiles.missiles.6364
Table 1. Summary of U.S. Hypersonic Weapons RDT&E Funding
FY2022 Request
FY2022 Enacted
PB2023
Title
($ in millions)
($ in millions)
($ in millions)
Schedule
Conventional Conventional
1,374 1,374
1,325 1,325
1,205 1,205
Platform Platform
Prompt Strike (CPS) Prompt Strike (CPS)
deployment in deployment in
FY2025 and FY2028 FY2025 and FY2028
Hypersonic Air- Hypersonic Air-
0 0
0 0
92 92
Field in FY2028 Field in FY2028
Launched OASuW Launched OASuW
(HALO) (HALO)
Long-Range Long-Range
412 412
426 426
806 806
Prototype Prototype
Hypersonic Hypersonic
deployment in deployment in
Weapon (LRHW) Weapon (LRHW)
FY2023 FY2023
AGM-183 Air- AGM-183 Air-
238 238
319 319
115 115
Flight tests through Flight tests through
Launched Rapid Launched Rapid
FY2023 FY2023
Response Weapon Response Weapon
(ARRW) (ARRW)
Hypersonic Attack Hypersonic Attack
200 200
190 190
462 462
Complete test and Complete test and
Cruise Missile Cruise Missile
development in development in
(HACM) (HACM)
FY2027 FY2027
Tactical Boost Glide Tactical Boost Glide
50 50
50 50
30 30
Complete third test Complete third test
(TBG) (TBG)
flight in FY2023 flight in FY2023
~~Hypersonic Air-~~
10
10
60
~~Begin integration~~
~~breathing Weapon~~
~~and ground testing~~
~~Concept (HAWC)/~~
~~in FY2023~~
~~MoHAWC~~
Source: Program information taken from U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, and DARPA FY2022 and FY2023
~~Justification Books, available at https://comptrol er.defense.gov/Budget-Materials/.~~
Note: MoHAWC, a new start in FY2023, is the successor program to HAWC, which concluded in FY2022.

60 59 “Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) Program Information,” DARPA, at https://www.darpa.mil/program/hypersonic-air-breathing-weapon-concept. 60 Oren Liebermann, “US tested hypersonic missile in mid-March but kept it quiet to avoid escalating tensions with Russia,” CNN, April 5, 2022, at https://us.cnn.com/2022/04/04/politics/us-hypersonic-missile-test/index.html; and Courtney Albon, “Raytheon hypersonic scramjet missile has another successful flight test,” Defense News, July 19, 2022, at https://www.defensenews.com/battlefield-tech/2022/07/19/darpas-hypersonic-scramjet-missile-logs-another-flight-test-success/?utm_source=sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=dfn-ebb&SToverlay=2002c2d9-c344-4bbb-8610-e5794efcfa7d. 61 “Department of Defense Press Briefing on Hypersonics,” March 2, 2020, at https://www.defense.gov/Newsroom/ “Department of Defense Press Briefing on Hypersonics,” March 2, 2020, at 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/.
6162 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 161, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 161, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/
fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2022.pdf. fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2022.pdf.
6263 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 173, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 173, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/
fy2023/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2023.pdf. fy2023/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2023.pdf.
6364 Ibid. Ibid.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

10 10

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

FY2022 Request FY2022 Enacted PB2023 Title ($ in millions) ($ in millions) ($ in millions) Schedule Hypersonic Air- 10 10 60 Begin integration breathing Weapon and ground testing Concept (HAWC)/ in FY2023 MoHAWC Source: Program information taken from U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, and DARPA FY2022 and FY2023 Justification Books, available at https://comptrol er.defense.gov/Budget-Materials/. Note: MoHAWC, a new start in FY2023, is the successor program to HAWC, which concluded in FY2022. Hypersonic Missile Defenses65~~Hypersonic Missile Defenses64~~
DOD is also investing in counter-hypersonic weapons capabilities, although former USD(R&E) 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 Michael Griffin has stated that the United States will not have a defensive capability against
hypersonic weapons until the mid-2020s, at the earliest.hypersonic weapons until the mid-2020s, at the earliest.6566 In September 2018, the Missile Defense In September 2018, the Missile Defense
Agency (MDA)—which in 2017 established a Hypersonic Defense Program pursuant to Section Agency (MDA)—which in 2017 established a Hypersonic Defense Program pursuant to Section
1687 of the FY2017 NDAA (H.Rept. 114-840)—commissioned 21 white papers to explore 1687 of the FY2017 NDAA (H.Rept. 114-840)—commissioned 21 white papers to explore
hypersonic missile defense options, including interceptor missiles, hypervelocity projectiles, laser hypersonic missile defense options, including interceptor missiles, hypervelocity projectiles, laser
guns, and electronic attack systems.guns, and electronic attack systems.6667 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 intended proposals for a Hypersonic Defense Regional Glide Phase Weapons System interceptor intended
to be fielded in the mid-2030s; however, the program was later cancelled in favor of a nearer-term to be fielded in the mid-2030s; however, the program was later cancelled in favor of a nearer-term
solution, the Glide Phase Intercept (GPI).solution, the Glide Phase Intercept (GPI).6768 MDA seeks to field a regional, sea-based GPI MDA seeks to field a regional, sea-based GPI
capability in the mid- to late 2020s.capability in the mid- to late 2020s.6869 In addition, MDA is developing the Hypersonic and In addition, MDA is developing the Hypersonic and
Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS)—which it hopes to launch in March 2023—in an effort Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS)—which it hopes to launch in March 2023—in an effort
to improve the agency’s ability to detect and track incoming missiles.to improve the agency’s ability to detect and track incoming missiles.6970 MDA requested $89.2 MDA requested $89.2
million for HBTSS in FY2023; the agency requested $225.5 million for hypersonic defense in million for HBTSS in FY2023; the agency requested $225.5 million for hypersonic defense in
FY2023—down from its $247.9 million FY2022 request and $287.8 million FY2022 FY2023—down from its $247.9 million FY2022 request and $287.8 million FY2022
appropriation.appropriation.7071 Finally, DARPA is working on a program called Glide Breaker, which “will Finally, 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 threats at very long range.”71 DARPA requested $18 million for Glide~~
~~Breaker in FY2023, up from its $7 million request and appropriation in FY2022.72~~

6465 For additional information about hypersonic missile defense, see CRS In Focus IF11623, For additional information about hypersonic missile defense, see CRS In Focus IF11623, Hypersonic Missile
Defense: Issues for Congress, by Kelley M. Sayler. , by Kelley M. Sayler.
6566 “Media Availability With Deputy Secretary Shanahan and Under Secretary of Defense Griffin at NDIA Hypersonics “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, at https://dod.defense.gov/News/Senior Executive Series,” U.S. Department of Defense, December 13, 2018, at https://dod.defense.gov/News/
Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1713396/media-availability-with-deputy-secretary-shanahan-and-under-secretary-Transcripts/Transcript-View/Article/1713396/media-availability-with-deputy-secretary-shanahan-and-under-secretary-
of-defens/. of-defens/.
6667 H.Rept. 114-840, Section 2, Division A, Title XVI, §1687; Hudson and Trimble, “Top U.S. Hypersonic Weapon H.Rept. 114-840, Section 2, Division A, Title XVI, §1687; Hudson and Trimble, “Top U.S. Hypersonic Weapon
Program”; and Steve Trimble, “A Hypersonic Sputnik?,” p. 21. Program”; and Steve Trimble, “A Hypersonic Sputnik?,” p. 21.
6768 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; and Steve Trimble, “MDA Unveils GPI In Retooled Counter-Hypersonic Plan,” System,” January 30, 2020, p. 8; and Steve Trimble, “MDA Unveils GPI In Retooled Counter-Hypersonic Plan,”
Aviation Week, February 4, 2021, at https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/missile-defense-weapons/mda-unveils-, February 4, 2021, at https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/missile-defense-weapons/mda-unveils-
gpi-retooled-counter-hypersonic-plan. gpi-retooled-counter-hypersonic-plan.
6869 Steve Trimble, “MDA Unveils GPI In Retooled Counter-Hypersonic Plan,” Steve Trimble, “MDA Unveils GPI In Retooled Counter-Hypersonic Plan,” Aviation Week, February 4, 2021, at , February 4, 2021, at
https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/missile-defense-weapons/mda-unveils-gpi-retooled-counter-hypersonic-plan. https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/missile-defense-weapons/mda-unveils-gpi-retooled-counter-hypersonic-plan.
6970 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency, Defense-Wide Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency, Defense-Wide
Justification Book 2a of 5, p. 841, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2023/Justification Book 2a of 5, p. 841, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2023/
budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB23_Justification_Book.pdf; and budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB23_Justification_Book.pdf; and Defense
Budget Overview: United States Department of Defense Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request, Office of the Under , Office of the Under
Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, April 2022, p. 2-15, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, April 2022, p. 2-15, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/
Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/FY2023/FY2023_Budget_Request_Overview_Book.pdf. Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/FY2023/FY2023_Budget_Request_Overview_Book.pdf.
7071 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency, Defense-Wide Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency, Defense-Wide
Justification Book 2a of 5, p. 631 and 853, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2023/Justification Book 2a of 5, p. 631 and 853, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2023/
~~budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB23_Justification_Book.pdf; and Department~~
~~of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency, Defense-Wide Justification Book 2a of~~
~~5, p. 569, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/~~
~~03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB22_Justification_Book.pdf.~~
~~71 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,~~
~~Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 164.~~
~~72 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,~~
~~Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 169, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

11

~~link to page 29~~ ~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

Congressional Research Service 11 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress develop critical component technology to support a lightweight vehicle designed for precise engagement of hypersonic threats at very long range.”72 DARPA requested $18 million for Glide Breaker in FY2023, up from its $7 million request and appropriation in FY2022.73 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),7374 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.hypersonic technologies for defense systems development through 2030.7475 These specialized These specialized
facilities, which simulate the unique conditions experienced in hypersonic flight (e.g., speed, facilities, which simulate the unique conditions experienced in hypersonic flight (e.g., speed,
pressure, heating),pressure, heating),7576 included 10 DOD hypersonic ground test facilities, 11 DOD open-air ranges, 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 11 DOD mobile assets, 9 NASA facilities, 2 Department of Energy (DOE) facilities, and 5
industry or academic facilities.industry or academic facilities.7677 In its 2014 evaluation of U.S. hypersonic test and evaluation 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, 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 coupled aerodynamic and thermal-loading environments for flight durations necessary to evaluate
these characteristics above Mach 8.” these characteristics above Mach 8.”
Since the 2014 study report was published, there have been a number of changes in U.S. Since the 2014 study report was published, there have been a number of changes in U.S.
hypersonic test infrastructure. For example, the University of Notre Dame has opened a Mach 6 hypersonic test infrastructure. For example, the University of Notre Dame has opened a Mach 6
hypersonic wind tunnel and at least one hypersonic testing facility has been inactivated. hypersonic wind tunnel and at least one hypersonic testing facility has been inactivated.
Development of Mach 8 and Mach 10 wind tunnels at Purdue University and the University of Development of Mach 8 and Mach 10 wind tunnels at Purdue University and the University of
Notre Dame, respectively, is ongoing.Notre Dame, respectively, is ongoing.7778 In addition, the University of Arizona modified one of its In addition, the University of Arizona modified one of its
wind tunnels to enable Mach 5 testing, while Texas A&M University—in partnership with Army wind tunnels to enable Mach 5 testing, while Texas A&M University—in partnership with Army
Futures Command—is constructing a kilometer-long Mach 10 wind tunnel.Futures Command—is constructing a kilometer-long Mach 10 wind tunnel.~~78 The United States~~
~~also uses the Royal Australian Air Force Woomera Test Range in Australia and the Andøya~~
~~Rocket Range in Norway for flight testing.79 (For a partial list of U.S. hypersonic test assets and~~
~~their capabilities, see the Appendix.)~~

79 The United States budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB23_Justification_Book.pdf; and Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency, Defense-Wide Justification Book 2a of 5, p. 569, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB22_Justification_Book.pdf. 72 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 164. 73 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 169, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2023/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2023.pdf; and fy2023/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2023.pdf; and
Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency,
Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 160, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/Defense-Wide Justification Book 1 of 5, p. 160, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/
fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2022.pdf. fy2022/budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol1_DARPA_MasterJustificationBook_PB_2022.pdf.
7374 P.L. 112-239, Section 2, Division A, Title X, §1071. P.L. 112-239, Section 2, Division A, Title X, §1071.
7475 A more recent report by the Government Accountability Office states that there are “26 DOD, DOE, NASA, and 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, 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, at https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-378. , GAO-21-378, March 22, 2021, p. 15, at https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-378.
7576 These conditions additionally require the development of specialized materials such as metals and ceramics. These conditions additionally require the development of specialized materials such as metals and ceramics.
7677 This list is taken directly from a 2014 Institute for Defense Analysis report and, therefore, may not be current. See 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//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 , Institute for Defense Analyses, September 2014. Permission to use this material has been granted by the
Office of Science and Technology Policy. Office of Science and Technology Policy.
7778 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, at https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/04/23/air-force-expanding-hypersonic-technology-April 23, 2019, at https://www.military.com/daily-news/2019/04/23/air-force-expanding-hypersonic-technology-
testing-two-indiana-universities.html. testing-two-indiana-universities.html.
7879 University of Arizona, “Mach 5 Quiet Ludwieg Tube,” at https://transition.arizona.edu/facilities/qlt5?_ga= University of Arizona, “Mach 5 Quiet Ludwieg Tube,” at https://transition.arizona.edu/facilities/qlt5?_ga=
~~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-~~
~~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~~
~~Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University also maintain experimental hypersonic facilities or conduct~~
~~hypersonic research.~~
79 (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al., (U) Study on the Ability of the U.S. Test and Evaluation Infrastructure.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

12

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

Congressional Research Service 12 link to page 31 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress also uses the Royal Australian Air Force Woomera Test Range in Australia and the Andøya Rocket Range in Norway for flight testing.80 (For a partial list of U.S. hypersonic test assets and their capabilities, see the Appendix.) In February 2022, DOD’s Office of Inspector General announced that it had concluded its two- In February 2022, DOD’s Office of Inspector General announced that it had concluded its two-
year-long evaluation of current ground test and evaluation facilities to determine if the capability year-long evaluation of current ground test and evaluation facilities to determine if the capability
and capacity would be sufficient to execute DOD’s planned test schedule; however, DOD did not and capacity would be sufficient to execute DOD’s planned test schedule; however, DOD did not
release the evaluation to the public.release the evaluation to the public.8081 Similarly, an annual report by DOD’s Director of Test and Similarly, an annual report by DOD’s Director of Test and
Evaluation evaluated the sufficiency of U.S. hypersonic weapons test infrastructure; this report Evaluation evaluated the sufficiency of U.S. hypersonic weapons test infrastructure; this report
was not released publicly.was not released publicly.8182
DOD reportedly plans to expand hypersonic test infrastructure in the coming years. In January DOD reportedly plans to expand hypersonic test infrastructure in the coming years. In January
2019, the Navy announced plans to reactivate its Launch Test Complex at China Lake, CA, to 2019, the Navy announced plans to reactivate its Launch Test Complex at China Lake, CA, to
improve air launch and underwater testing capabilities for the conventional prompt strike improve air launch and underwater testing capabilities for the conventional prompt strike
program.program.8283 DOD has also announced the planned construction of the Multi-Service Advanced DOD has also announced the planned construction of the Multi-Service Advanced
Capability Hypersonics Test Bed (MACH-TB), which is to “increase domestic capacity for Capability Hypersonics Test Bed (MACH-TB), which is to “increase domestic capacity for
hypersonic flight testing and leverage multiple commercially-available launch vehicles for ride-hypersonic flight testing and leverage multiple commercially-available launch vehicles for ride-
along hypersonic payloads.”along hypersonic payloads.”~~83According~~84According to an assessment conducted by the Government to an assessment conducted by the Government
Accountability Office, DOD has dedicated approximately $1 billion to hypersonic facility Accountability Office, DOD has dedicated approximately $1 billion to hypersonic facility
modernization from FY2015 to FY2024.modernization from FY2015 to FY2024.8485
Congress has also continued to express interest in hypersonic weapons infrastructure. Section 222 Congress has also continued to express interest in hypersonic weapons infrastructure. Section 222
of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) requires the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and 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 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.” Section 225 of the FY2022 NDAA (P.L. 117-81) requires the Secretary~~
~~of Defense to identify the hypersonic facilities and capabilities of the Major Range and Test~~
~~Facility Base and brief the congressional defense committees on a plan for improvement.~~
~~Finally, 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~~

80 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-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 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University also maintain experimental hypersonic facilities or conduct hypersonic research. 80 (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al., (U) Study on the Ability of the U.S. Test and Evaluation Infrastructure. 81 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, at https://media.defense.gov/2020/Apr/14/2002280826/-1/-1/1/D2020-DEV0SN-0106.000.PDF; and April 13, 2020, at https://media.defense.gov/2020/Apr/14/2002280826/-1/-1/1/D2020-DEV0SN-0106.000.PDF; and
Department of Defense Office of Inspector General,” Evaluation of the Ground Test and Evaluation Infrastructure Department of Defense Office of Inspector General,” Evaluation of the Ground Test and Evaluation Infrastructure
Supporting Hypersonic Capabilities (DODIG-2022-056),” February 3, 2022, at https://www.dodig.mil/reports.html/Supporting Hypersonic Capabilities (DODIG-2022-056),” February 3, 2022, at https://www.dodig.mil/reports.html/
Article/2921419/evaluation-of-the-ground-test-and-evaluation-infrastructure-supporting-hyperson/. Article/2921419/evaluation-of-the-ground-test-and-evaluation-infrastructure-supporting-hyperson/.
8182 Anthony Capaccio, “Pentagon Hypersonic Weapons Tests Need More Wide-Open Spaces,” Anthony Capaccio, “Pentagon Hypersonic Weapons Tests Need More Wide-Open Spaces,” Bloomberg, February 3, , February 3,
2020. 2020.
8283 “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, at https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1644858-JMR. 12, 2019, at https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1644858-JMR.
8384 U.S. Department of Defense, “DoD Announces New Contract to Increase Hypersonic Flight Testing Tempo,” U.S. Department of Defense, “DoD Announces New Contract to Increase Hypersonic Flight Testing Tempo,”
October 6, 2022, at https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3182305/dod-announces-new-contract-to-October 6, 2022, at https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3182305/dod-announces-new-contract-to-
increase-hypersonic-flight-testing-tempo/. According to a Dynetics press release, Dynetics is to lead a MACH-TB team increase-hypersonic-flight-testing-tempo/. According to a Dynetics press release, Dynetics is to lead a MACH-TB team
composed of over 20 partners, including Peraton, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Stratolaunch, JRC Integrated composed of over 20 partners, including Peraton, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Stratolaunch, JRC Integrated
Systems, NineTwelve Institute, Corvid, SpinLaunch, Varda, Kitty Hawk Technologies, Systima Division of Karman Systems, NineTwelve Institute, Corvid, SpinLaunch, Varda, Kitty Hawk Technologies, Systima Division of Karman
Space and Defense, Sandia National Laboratories, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, X-Bow Systems, RLNS and other Space and Defense, Sandia National Laboratories, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, X-Bow Systems, RLNS and other
hypersonic experts. See PRNewswire, “Dynetics Awarded New Contract to Increase Hypersonic Flight Testing hypersonic experts. See PRNewswire, “Dynetics Awarded New Contract to Increase Hypersonic Flight Testing
Tempo,” October 20, 2022, at https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dynetics-awarded-new-contract-to-increase-Tempo,” October 20, 2022, at https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dynetics-awarded-new-contract-to-increase-
hypersonic-flight-testing-tempo-301654753.html. hypersonic-flight-testing-tempo-301654753.html.
8485 Government Accountability Office, 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, at https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-, GAO-21-378, March 22, 2021, p. 27, at https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-
21-378. 21-378.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

13 13

~~link to page 18~~ Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress 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.” Section 225 of the FY2022 NDAA (P.L. 117-81) requires the Secretary of Defense to identify the hypersonic facilities and capabilities of the Major Range and Test Facility Base and brief the congressional defense committees on a plan for improvement. Finally, 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.86~~Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress~~

~~chain.85~~ DOD has also amended its “5000 series” acquisition policy in order to enhance supply DOD has also amended its “5000 series” acquisition policy in order to enhance supply
chain resiliency and reduce sustainment costs.chain resiliency and reduce sustainment costs.8687
Russia
Although Russia has conducted research on hypersonic weapons technology since the 1980s, it 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 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 and Europe, and in response to the U.S. withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty in
2001.2001.8788 Detailing Russia’s concerns, President Putin stated that “the US is permitting constant, 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 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 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 complete devaluation of Russia’s nuclear potential. Meaning that all of our missiles could simply
be intercepted.”be intercepted.”8889 Russia thus seeks hypersonic weapons, which can maneuver as they approach 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 their targets, as an assured means of penetrating U.S. missile defenses and restoring its sense of
strategic stability.strategic stability.8990
Programs
Russia is pursuing two hypersonic weapons programs—the Avangard and the 3M22 Tsirkon (or 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 Zircon)—and has reportedly fielded the Kinzhal (“Dagger”), a maneuvering air-launched ballistic
missile.missile.90
~~Avangard (Figure 2) is a hypersonic glide vehicle launched from an intercontinental ballistic~~
~~missile (ICBM), giving it “effectively ‘unlimited’ range.”91 Reports indicate that Avangard is~~
~~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 was successfully tested~~
~~in April 2022 and is scheduled to be deployed by the end of 2022.92 Avangard features onboard~~

8591 86 Aaron Mehta, “Pentagon launches hypersonic industrial base study,” Aaron Mehta, “Pentagon launches hypersonic industrial base study,” Defense News, March 3, 2020, at , March 3, 2020, at
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/.
8687 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, at https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2400205/rewrite-of-acquisition-, October 30, 2020, at 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/.
8788 United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapons: A Challenge and Opportunity for Strategic
Arms Control, February 2019, at https://www.un.org/disarmament/publications/more/hypersonic-weapons-a-challenge-, February 2019, at https://www.un.org/disarmament/publications/more/hypersonic-weapons-a-challenge-
and-opportunity-for-strategic-arms-control/. and-opportunity-for-strategic-arms-control/.
8889 Vladimir Putin, “Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly,” March 1, 2018, at http://en.kremlin.ru/events/ Vladimir Putin, “Presidential Address to the Federal Assembly,” March 1, 2018, at http://en.kremlin.ru/events/
president/news/56957. president/news/56957.
8990 In this instance, “strategic stability” refers to a “bilateral nuclear relationship of mutual vulnerability.” See Tong 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 Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability: Chinese Perceptions of Hypersonic Technology and the Security
Dilemma,” Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy, July 23, 2018, at https://carnegietsinghua.org/2018/07/23/Dilemma,” Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy, July 23, 2018, at https://carnegietsinghua.org/2018/07/23/
conventional-challenges-to-strategic-stability-chinese-perceptions-of-hypersonic-technology-and-security-dilemma-conventional-challenges-to-strategic-stability-chinese-perceptions-of-hypersonic-technology-and-security-dilemma-
pub-76894. pub-76894.
9091 Although the Kinzhal is a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile rather than a hypersonic glide vehicle or Although the Kinzhal is a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile rather than a hypersonic glide vehicle or
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.
~~91 Steve Trimble, “A Hypersonic Sputnik?,” Aviation Week, January 14-27, 2019, p. 20.~~
~~92 Lateshia Beachum, Mary Ilyushina and Karoun Demirjian, “Russia’s ‘Satan 2’ missile changes little for U.S.,~~
~~scholars say,” Washington Post, April 20, 2022, at https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2022/04/20/satan-2-icbm/;~~
~~and Nicholas Fiorenza, “Putin outlines development of Russia’s nuclear triad,” Jane’s Defence Weekly (subscription~~
~~required), April 22, 2021, at https://customer.janes.com/DefenceWeekly/Display/FG_3953700-JDW. Sarmat could~~
~~reportedly accommodate at least three Avangard vehicles. See Malcolm Claus, “Russia unveils new strategic delivery~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

14

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

Congressional Research Service 14 link to page 19 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress Avangard (Figure 2) is a hypersonic glide vehicle launched from an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), giving it “effectively ‘unlimited’ range.”92 Reports indicate that Avangard is 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 was successfully tested in April 2022 and is scheduled to be deployed by the end of 2022.93 Avangard features onboard countermeasures and will reportedly carry a nuclear warhead. It was successfully tested twice in countermeasures and will reportedly carry a nuclear warhead. It was successfully tested twice in
2016 and once in December 2018, reportedly reaching speeds of Mach 20; however, an October 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 Avangard entered into combat duty 2017 test resulted in failure. Russian news sources claim that Avangard entered into combat duty
in December 2019.in December 2019.9394
Figure 2. Artist Rendering of Avangard

Source: https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_899127-JIR. https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_899127-JIR.
In addition to Avangard, Russia is developing Tsirkon, a ship-launched hypersonic cruise missile 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 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 striking both ground and naval targets. According to Russian news sources, Tsirkon has a
maximum range of approximately 625 miles and can be fired from the vertical launch systems maximum range of approximately 625 miles and can be fired from the vertical launch systems
mounted on cruisers mounted on cruisers Admiral Nakhimov and and Pyotr Veliky, Project 20380 corvettes, Project 22350 , Project 20380 corvettes, Project 22350
frigates, and Project 885 Yasen-class submarines, among other platforms.frigates, and Project 885 Yasen-class submarines, among other platforms.9495 These sources assert These sources assert
that Tsirkon was successfully launched from a Project 22350 frigate in January, October, and that Tsirkon was successfully launched from a Project 22350 frigate in January, October, and
December 2020 and from a Project 885 Yasen-class submarine in October 2021.December 2020 and from a Project 885 Yasen-class submarine in October 2021.~~95 Russian news~~
~~sources additionally indicate that, following a successful May 2022 test, the missile will become~~
~~operational by the end of 2022 and is likely to be fielded on Project 22350 frigates.96~~
~~In addition, Russia has fielded Kinzhal, a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile modified~~
~~from the Iskander missile. Russia reportedly fired Kinzhal from a MiG-31 interceptor aircraft in~~

96 Russian news 92 Steve Trimble, “A Hypersonic Sputnik?,” Aviation Week, January 14-27, 2019, p. 20. 93 Lateshia Beachum, Mary Ilyushina and Karoun Demirjian, “Russia’s ‘Satan 2’ missile changes little for U.S., scholars say,” Washington Post, April 20, 2022, at https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2022/04/20/satan-2-icbm/; and Nicholas Fiorenza, “Putin outlines development of Russia’s nuclear triad,” Jane’s Defence Weekly (subscription required), April 22, 2021, at https://customer.janes.com/DefenceWeekly/Display/FG_3953700-JDW. Sarmat could reportedly accommodate at least three Avangard vehicles. See Malcolm Claus, “Russia unveils new strategic delivery systems,” systems,” Jane’s (subscription required), at https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_899127-JIR. (subscription required), at https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_899127-JIR.
9394 “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,
at https://tass.com/defense/1104297. at https://tass.com/defense/1104297.
9495 “Russia makes over 10 test launches of Tsirkon seaborne hypersonic missile,” “Russia makes over 10 test launches of Tsirkon seaborne hypersonic missile,” TASS, December 21, 2018, at , December 21, 2018, at
http://tass.com/defense/1037426. See also http://tass.com/defense/1037426. See also Russia Military Power: Building a Military to Support Great Power
Aspirations, Defense Intelligence Agency, 2017, p. 79, at https://www.dia.mil/portals/27/documents/news/, Defense Intelligence Agency, 2017, p. 79, at https://www.dia.mil/portals/27/documents/news/
military%20power%20publications/russia%20military%20power%20report%202017.pdf. military%20power%20publications/russia%20military%20power%20report%202017.pdf.
9596 “TASS: Russia Conducts First Ship-Based Hypersonic Missile Test,” “TASS: Russia Conducts First Ship-Based Hypersonic Missile Test,” Reuters, February 27, 2020, at , February 27, 2020, at
https://www.voanews.com/europe/tass-russia-conducts-first-ship-based-hypersonic-missile-test; and Samuel Cranny-https://www.voanews.com/europe/tass-russia-conducts-first-ship-based-hypersonic-missile-test; and Samuel Cranny-
Evans, “Russia conducts first submarine test launches of Tsirkon hypersonic missile,” Evans, “Russia conducts first submarine test launches of Tsirkon hypersonic missile,” Jane’s (subscription required), (subscription required),
October 4, 2021. October 4, 2021.
~~96 Isabel van Brugen, “Putin to Give Navy Hypersonic Missiles as Russia Beats U.S. in Arms Race,” Newsweek, July~~
~~18, 2022, at https://www.newsweek.com/putin-russian-navy-hypersonic-missiles-zircon-1725426.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

15

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

~~Ukraine97~~Congressional Research Service 15 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress sources additionally indicate that, following a successful May 2022 test, the missile will become operational by the end of 2022 and is likely to be fielded on Project 22350 frigates.97 In addition, Russia has fielded Kinzhal, a maneuvering air-launched ballistic missile modified from the Iskander missile. Russia reportedly fired Kinzhal from a MiG-31 interceptor aircraft in Ukraine98 and additionally plans to deploy the missile on the Su-34 long-range strike and additionally plans to deploy the missile on the Su-34 long-range strike ~~fighter98~~fighter99 and and
the Tu-22M3 strategic bomber, although the slower-moving bomber may face challenges in the Tu-22M3 strategic bomber, although the slower-moving bomber may face challenges in
“accelerating the weapon into the correct launch parameters.”“accelerating the weapon into the correct launch parameters.”99100 Russian media has reported 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-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 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 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. 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.intelligence agencies, and have been met with skepticism by a number of analysts.~~100~~101
Infrastructure
Russia reportedly conducts hypersonic wind tunnel testing at the Central Aero-Hydrodynamic 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 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 Novosibirsk, and has tested hypersonic weapons at Dombarovskiy Air Base, the Baykonur
Cosmodrome, and the Kura Range.Cosmodrome, and the Kura Range.~~101~~102
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. missile defenses.military technology,” such as U.S. missile defenses.~~102~~103 In particular, China’s pursuit of hypersonic In particular, China’s pursuit of hypersonic
weapons, like Russia’s, reflects a concern that U.S. hypersonic weapons could enable the United 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 supporting 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 conduct a~~
~~retaliatory strike against the United States.103~~
~~As General Terrence O’Shaughnessy, then-commander of United States Northern Command~~
~~(USNORTHCOM) and North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), testified in a~~
~~February 2020 hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, China is “testing a~~
~~[nuclear-capable] intercontinental-range hypersonic glide vehicle” that could evade U.S. missile~~

97 97 Isabel van Brugen, “Putin to Give Navy Hypersonic Missiles as Russia Beats U.S. in Arms Race,” Newsweek, July 18, 2022, at https://www.newsweek.com/putin-russian-navy-hypersonic-missiles-zircon-1725426. 98 Roxana Tiron, “Hypersonic Weapons: Who Has Them and Why It Matters,” Roxana Tiron, “Hypersonic Weapons: Who Has Them and Why It Matters,” Washington Post, April 6, 2022, at , April 6, 2022, at
https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/hypersonic-weapons-who-has-them-and-why-it-matters/2022/04/05/https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/hypersonic-weapons-who-has-them-and-why-it-matters/2022/04/05/
1f6d0280-b557-11ec-8358-20aa16355fb4_story.html. 1f6d0280-b557-11ec-8358-20aa16355fb4_story.html.
9899 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.
99100 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
Bomber,” Bomber,” The National Interest, July 18, 2018, at https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/russia-new-kinzhal-aero-, July 18, 2018, at https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/russia-new-kinzhal-aero-
ballistic-missile-has-3000-km-range-if-fired-supersonic-bomber. ballistic-missile-has-3000-km-range-if-fired-supersonic-bomber.
~~100~~101 David Axe, “Is Kinzhal, Russia’s New Hypersonic Missile, a Game Changer?,” David Axe, “Is Kinzhal, Russia’s New Hypersonic Missile, a Game Changer?,” The Daily Beast, March 15, 2018, at , March 15, 2018, at
https://www.thedailybeast.com/is-kinzhal-russias-new-hypersonic-missile-a-game-changer. https://www.thedailybeast.com/is-kinzhal-russias-new-hypersonic-missile-a-game-changer.
~~101~~102 “Aerodynamics,” Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute, http://tsagi.com/research/aerodynamics/; “Russia announces “Aerodynamics,” Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute, http://tsagi.com/research/aerodynamics/; “Russia announces
successful flight test of Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle,” successful flight test of Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle,” Jane’s (subscription required), January 3, 2019, at (subscription required), January 3, 2019, at
https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1451630-JMR; and “Avangard system is tested, said to be fully ready for 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, at http://russianforces.org/blog/2018/12/deployment,” Russian Strategic Nuclear Forces, December 26, 2018, at http://russianforces.org/blog/2018/12/
avangard_system_is_tested_said.shtml. avangard_system_is_tested_said.shtml.
~~102~~103 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.”
~~103 Tong Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability”; and Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic~~
~~Glide,” August 15, 2017, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, at https://www.sipri.org/commentary/~~
~~topical-backgrounder/2017/chinas-calculus-hypersonic-glide.~~
~~Congressional Research Service~~

16

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

~~defense and warning systems.104~~ Congressional Research Service 16 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress infrastructure. U.S. missile defense deployments could then limit China’s ability to conduct a retaliatory strike against the United States.104 As General Terrence O’Shaughnessy, then-commander of United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) and North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), testified in a February 2020 hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee, China is “testing a [nuclear-capable] intercontinental-range hypersonic glide vehicle” that could evade U.S. missile defense and warning systems.105 Reports additionally indicate that China may have tested a Reports additionally indicate that China may have tested a
nuclear-capable nuclear-capable ~~HGV105~~HGV106—launched by a Long March rocket—in August 2021.—launched by a Long March rocket—in August 2021.~~106~~107 In contrast to In contrast to
the ballistic missiles that China has previously used to launch HGVs, the Long March, a the ballistic missiles that China has previously used to launch HGVs, the Long March, a
fractional orbital bombardment system (FOBS), launches the HGV into orbit before the HGV de-fractional orbital bombardment system (FOBS), launches the HGV into orbit before the HGV de-
orbits to its target. This could provide China with a space-based global strike capability and orbits to its target. This could provide China with a space-based global strike capability and
further reduce the amount of target warning time prior to a strike.further reduce the amount of target warning time prior to a strike.~~107~~108
China has also demonstrated a growing interest in Russian advances in hypersonic weapons China has also 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.~~108~~109 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.~~109~~110 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
strategy.strategy.~~110~~111
Programs
China has conducted a number of successful tests of the DF-17, a medium-range ballistic missile 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 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.range of approximately 1,000 to 1,500 miles and may now be deployed.~~111~~112 China has also tested 104 Tong Zhao, “Conventional Challenges to Strategic Stability”; and Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide,” August 15, 2017, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, at https://www.sipri.org/commentary/topical-backgrounder/2017/chinas-calculus-hypersonic-glide. 105 ~~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.112~~

~~104~~ General Terrence J. O’Shaughnessy, “Statement before the Senate Armed Services Committee,” February 13, 2020, General Terrence J. O’Shaughnessy, “Statement before the Senate Armed Services Committee,” February 13, 2020,
at https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/hearings/20-02-13-united-states-northern-command-and-united-states-at https://www.armed-services.senate.gov/hearings/20-02-13-united-states-northern-command-and-united-states-
strategic-command. strategic-command.
~~105~~106 It is not clear if this nuclear-capable HGV is the same model as that referenced by General O’Shaughnessy. It is not clear if this nuclear-capable HGV is the same model as that referenced by General O’Shaughnessy.
~~106~~107 Demetri Sevastopulo and Kathrin Hille, “China tests new space capability with hypersonic missile,” October 16, Demetri Sevastopulo and Kathrin Hille, “China tests new space capability with hypersonic missile,” October 16,
2021, at https://www.ft.com/content/ba0a3cde-719b-4040-93cb-a486e1f843fb. China’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson 2021, at https://www.ft.com/content/ba0a3cde-719b-4040-93cb-a486e1f843fb. China’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson
Zhao Lijian has stated that “this was a routine test of [a] space vehicle,” rather than a test of a nuclear-capable HGV. Zhao Lijian has stated that “this was a routine test of [a] space vehicle,” rather than a test of a nuclear-capable HGV.
Zhao Lijian, “Remarks at Regular Press Conference,” Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Zhao Lijian, “Remarks at Regular Press Conference,” Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China,
October 18, 2021, at https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/t1915130.shtml. October 18, 2021, at https://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/xwfw_665399/s2510_665401/t1915130.shtml.
~~107~~108 Greg Hadley, “Kendall: China Has Potential to Strike Earth from Space,” Greg Hadley, “Kendall: China Has Potential to Strike Earth from Space,” Air Force Magazine, September 20, 2021, , September 20, 2021,
at https://www.airforcemag.com/global-strikes-space-china-frank-kendall/. at https://www.airforcemag.com/global-strikes-space-china-frank-kendall/.
~~108~~109 Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide.” Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide.”
~~109~~110 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,
at https://www.sipri.org/sites/default/files/Factoring-Russia-into-US-Chinese-equation-hypersonic-glide-vehicles.pdf. at https://www.sipri.org/sites/default/files/Factoring-Russia-into-US-Chinese-equation-hypersonic-glide-vehicles.pdf.
~~110~~111 Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide”; and Malcolm Claus and Andrew Tate, “Chinese Lora Saalman, “China’s Calculus on Hypersonic Glide”; and Malcolm Claus and Andrew Tate, “Chinese
hypersonic programme reflects regional priorities,” hypersonic programme reflects regional priorities,” Jane’s (subscription required), March 12, 2019, at (subscription required), March 12, 2019, at
https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1731069-JIR. https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1731069-JIR.
~~111~~112 Ankit Panda, “Introducing the DF-17: China’s Newly Tested Ballistic Missile Armed with a Hypersonic Glide Ankit Panda, “Introducing the DF-17: China’s Newly Tested Ballistic Missile Armed with a Hypersonic Glide
Vehicle,” Vehicle,” The National Interest, December 28, 2017, at https://thediplomat.com/2017/12/introducing-the-df-17-chinas-, December 28, 2017, at 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 newly-tested-ballistic-missile-armed-with-a-hypersonic-glide-vehicle/; and Bill Gertz, “China’s new hypersonic
missile,” missile,” Washington Times, October 2, 2019, at https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/oct/2/china-shows-df-, October 2, 2019, at https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2019/oct/2/china-shows-df-
~~17-hypersonic-missile/.~~
~~112 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission 2018 Annual Report, p. 235, at https://www.uscc.gov/sites/~~
~~default/files/annual_reports/2018%20Annual%20Report%20to%20Congress.pdf.~~
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

17 17

link to page link to page 2223 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

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.113 China has tested the DF-ZF HGV (previously referred to as the WU-14) at least nine times since 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 2014. U.S. defense officials have reportedly identified the range of the DF-ZF as approximately
1,200 miles and have stated that the vehicle may be capable of performing “extreme maneuvers” 1,200 miles and have stated that the vehicle may be capable of performing “extreme maneuvers”
during flight.during flight.~~113~~114 China reportedly fielded the DF-ZF in 2020. China reportedly fielded the DF-ZF in 2020.~~114~~115
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.~~115~~116 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.~~116~~117
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.~~117~~118 U.S. officials have declined to comment on the program. U.S. officials have declined to comment on the program.~~118~~119
Infrastructure
China has a robust research and development infrastructure devoted to hypersonic weapons. 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 Then-USD(R&E) Michael Griffin stated in March 2018 that China has conducted 20 times as
many hypersonic tests as the United States.many hypersonic tests as the United States.~~119~~120 China tested three hypersonic vehicle models China tested three hypersonic vehicle models
(D18-1S, D18-2S, and D18-3S)—each with different aerodynamic properties—in September (D18-1S, D18-2S, and D18-3S)—each with different aerodynamic properties—in September
2018.2018.~~120~~121 Analysts believe that these tests could be designed to help China develop weapons that 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 fly at variable speeds, including hypersonic speeds. Similarly, China has used the Lingyun Mach
6+ high-speed engine, or “scramjet,” test bed 6+ high-speed engine, or “scramjet,” test bed (Figure 3) to research thermal resistant components to research thermal resistant components
and hypersonic cruise missile technologies.and hypersonic cruise missile technologies.~~121~~122

~~113~~17-hypersonic-missile/. 113 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission 2018 Annual Report, p. 235, at https://www.uscc.gov/sites/default/files/annual_reports/2018%20Annual%20Report%20to%20Congress.pdf. 114 “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, at , April 6, 2019, at
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, at https://thediplomat.com/2016/04/china-tests-new-weapon-capable-of-breaching-u-s-, April 28, 2016, at https://thediplomat.com/2016/04/china-tests-new-weapon-capable-of-breaching-u-s-
missile-defense-systems/. missile-defense-systems/.
~~114~~115 Department of Defense, Department of Defense, Military and Security Developments Involving the People’s Republic of China 2021, p. 60, , p. 60,
at https://media.defense.gov/2021/Nov/03/2002885874/-1/-1/0/2021-CMPR-FINAL.PDF. at https://media.defense.gov/2021/Nov/03/2002885874/-1/-1/0/2021-CMPR-FINAL.PDF.
~~115~~116 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, at https://media.defense.gov/2019/May/02/2002127082/-1/-1/1/May 2, 2019, p. 44, at https://media.defense.gov/2019/May/02/2002127082/-1/-1/1/
2019_CHINA_MILITARY_POWER_REPORT.pdf. 2019_CHINA_MILITARY_POWER_REPORT.pdf.
~~116~~117 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, at , August 7, 2018, at
https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/07/china/china-hypersonic-aircraft-intl/index.html. https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/07/china/china-hypersonic-aircraft-intl/index.html.
~~117~~118 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Report 2015, p. 20. , p. 20.
~~118~~119 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, at , August 10, 2018, at
https://freebeacon.com/national-security/chinas-reveals-test-new-hypersonic-missile/. https://freebeacon.com/national-security/chinas-reveals-test-new-hypersonic-missile/.
~~119~~120 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Report 2015, p. 20. , p. 20.
~~120~~121 Malcolm Claus and Andrew Tate, “Chinese hypersonic programme reflects regional priorities,” Malcolm Claus and Andrew Tate, “Chinese hypersonic programme reflects regional priorities,” Jane’s (subscription (subscription
required), March 12, 2019, at https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1731069-JIR. required), March 12, 2019, at https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1731069-JIR.
~~121~~122 Jeffrey Lin and P.W. Singer, “China’s hypersonic military projects include spaceplanes and rail guns,” Jeffrey Lin and P.W. Singer, “China’s hypersonic military projects include spaceplanes and rail guns,” Popular
Mechanics, June 26, 2018, at https://www.popsci.com/chinas-hypersonic-work-speeds-up. , June 26, 2018, at https://www.popsci.com/chinas-hypersonic-work-speeds-up.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

18 18

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.”~~122~~123 For example, the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Center For example, the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Center
claims to have 18 wind tunnels, while the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics is known 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 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.reaching speeds of Mach 8, Mach 10, and Mach 12, respectively.~~123~~124 China also operates the JF-12 China 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 5 and Mach 9 and the FD-21
hypersonic wind tunnel, which reaches speeds of between Mach 10 and Mach 15.hypersonic wind tunnel, which reaches speeds of between Mach 10 and Mach 15.~~124~~125 It will It will
reportedly complete construction of the JF-22 wind tunnel, capable of reaching speeds of Mach reportedly complete construction of the JF-22 wind tunnel, capable of reaching speeds of Mach
30, in 2022.30, in 2022.~~125~~126 In addition, China is known to have tested hypersonic weapons at the Jiuquan In addition, China is known to have tested hypersonic weapons at the Jiuquan
Satellite Launch Center and the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center. Satellite Launch Center and the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center.

~~122~~123 Andrew Tate, “China conducts further tests with hypersonic vehicles,” Andrew Tate, “China conducts further tests with hypersonic vehicles,” Jane’s Defence Weekly (subscription (subscription
required), October 2, 2018, at https://customer.janes.com/DefenceWeekly/Display/FG_1120806-JDW. required), October 2, 2018, at https://customer.janes.com/DefenceWeekly/Display/FG_1120806-JDW.
~~123~~124 Kelvin Wong, “China claims successful test of hypersonic waverider,” Kelvin Wong, “China claims successful test of hypersonic waverider,” Jane’s (subscription required), August 10, at (subscription required), August 10, at
2018, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1002295-JDW; and Ellen Nakashima and Gerry Shih, “China builds 2018, https://janes.ihs.com/Janes/Display/FG_1002295-JDW; and Ellen Nakashima and Gerry Shih, “China builds
advanced weapons systems using American chip technology,” advanced weapons systems using American chip technology,” Washington Post, April 9, 2021. , April 9, 2021.
~~124~~125 Jeffrey Lin and P.W. Singer, “A look at China’s most exciting hypersonic aerospace programs,” Jeffrey Lin and P.W. Singer, “A look at China’s most exciting hypersonic aerospace programs,” Popular Science, ,
April 18, 2017, at https://www.popsci.com/chinas-hypersonic-technology. April 18, 2017, at https://www.popsci.com/chinas-hypersonic-technology.
~~125~~126 Andrew Tate, “China’s new hypersonic wind tunnel expected to be ready next year,” Andrew Tate, “China’s new hypersonic wind tunnel expected to be ready next year,” Janes Defence Weekly
(subscription required), August 24, 2021, at https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/chinas-new-hypersonic-(subscription required), August 24, 2021, at https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/chinas-new-hypersonic-
wind-tunnel-expected-to-be-ready-next-year. wind-tunnel-expected-to-be-ready-next-year.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

19 19

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, Germany, South Korea, North Korea, and Japan—number of other countries—including Australia, India, France, Germany, South Korea, North Korea, and Japan—
are also developing hypersonic weapons technology. Since 2007, the United States has col aborated with Australia are also developing hypersonic weapons technology. Since 2007, the United States has col aborated with Australia
on the Hypersonic International Flight Research Experimentation (HIFiRE) program to develop hypersonic on the Hypersonic International Flight Research Experimentation (HIFiRE) program to develop hypersonic
technologies. The most recent HIFiRE test, successful y conducted in July 2017, explored the flight dynamics of a technologies. The most recent HIFiRE test, successful y 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, Mach 8 hypersonic glide 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 the Southern Cross Integrated Flight Research Experiment (SCIFiRE) program, is to further develop hypersonic
air-breathing technologies. SCIFiRE demonstration tests are expected by the mid-2020s. In addition to the air-breathing technologies. SCIFiRE demonstration tests are expected by the mid-2020s. In addition to the
Woomera Test Range facilities—one of the largest weapons test facilities in the world—Australia reportedly Woomera Test Range facilities—one of the largest weapons test facilities in the 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 col aborated with Russia on the development of BrahMos II, a Mach 7 hypersonic cruise missile. India has similarly col aborated 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 successful y tested a Mach 6 scramjet in June 2019 and September 2020. India Demonstrator Vehicle program and successful y 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 col aborated and contracted with Russia on the development of hypersonic technology. Although France also has col aborated 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 successful y tested an experimental hypersonic glide vehicle (SHEFEX II) in 2012; however, reports Germany successful y tested an experimental hypersonic glide vehicle (SHEFEX II) in 2012; however, reports
indicate that Germany may have pul ed funding for the program. German defense contractor DLR continues to indicate that Germany may have pul ed funding for the program. German defense contractor DLR continues to
research and test hypersonic vehicles as part of the European Union’s ATLLAS II project, which seeks to design a research and test hypersonic vehicles as part of the European Union’s ATLLAS 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.
In addition, South Korea reportedly has been developing a ground-launched Mach 6+ hypersonic cruise missile, In addition, South Korea reportedly has been developing a ground-launched Mach 6+ hypersonic cruise missile,
Hycore, since 2018 and plans to test the missile in 2022. According to Hycore, since 2018 and plans to test the missile in 2022. According to Janes, South Korea is developing the missile , South Korea is developing the missile
“in response to growing concern about North Korea military modernization” and plans to eventually develop sea- “in response to growing concern about North Korea military modernization” and plans to eventually develop sea-
and air-launched variants. and air-launched variants.
Although North Korea tested the Hwasong-8—which it identifies as a hypersonic glide vehicle—in September Although North Korea tested the Hwasong-8—which it identifies as a hypersonic glide vehicle—in September
2021, reports indicate that the vehicle may have reached speeds of only Mach 3. Similarly, North Korea claims to 2021, reports indicate that the vehicle may have reached speeds of only Mach 3. Similarly, North Korea claims to
have tested a second hypersonic weapon in January 2022; however, experts believe that that weapon may instead have tested a second hypersonic weapon in January 2022; however, experts believe that that weapon may instead
be a maneuvering reentry vehicle. be a maneuvering reentry vehicle.
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 mil ion in HVGP in FY2019. It reportedly plans to field HVGPs , Japan invested $122 mil ion in HVGP in FY2019. It reportedly plans to field HVGPs
for area suppression and neutralizing aircraft carriers. HVGP is expected to enter service in 2026, with a more for area suppression and neutralizing aircraft carriers. HVGP is expected to enter service in 2026, with a more
advanced version available by 2030, while HCM is expected to enter service in 2030. The Japan Aerospace advanced version available by 2030, while HCM is expected to enter service in 2030. The Japan Aerospace
Exploration Agency operates three hypersonic wind tunnels, with two additional facilities at Mitsubishi Heavy Exploration Agency operates three hypersonic wind tunnels, with two additional facilities at Mitsubishi Heavy
Industries and the University of Tokyo. According to DOD, Japan and the United States have agreed to conduct Industries and the University of Tokyo. According to DOD, Japan and the United States have agreed to conduct
“a joint analysis focused on future cooperation in counter-hypersonic technology.” “a joint analysis focused on future cooperation in counter-hypersonic technology.”
Other countries—including Iran, Israel, and Brazil—have conducted foundational research on hypersonic airflows Other countries—including Iran, Israel, and Brazil—have conducted foundational research on hypersonic airflows
and propulsion systems, but may not be pursuing a hypersonic weapons capability at this time. In addition, a and propulsion systems, but may not be pursuing a hypersonic weapons capability at this time. In addition, a
number of countries are testing increasingly maneuverable systems that travel at hypersonic speeds but that do number of countries are testing increasingly maneuverable systems that travel at hypersonic speeds but that do
not qualify as “hypersonic weapons” as defined in this report. not qualify as “hypersonic weapons” as defined in this report.
Note: For information about South Korea’s hypersonic weapons programs, see Jon Grevatt and Rahul Udoshi, For information about South Korea’s hypersonic weapons programs, see Jon Grevatt and Rahul Udoshi,
“South Korea develops Hycore hypersonic cruise missile,” “South Korea develops Hycore hypersonic cruise missile,” Janes (subscription required), January 25, 2022. For (subscription required), January 25, 2022. For
information about North Korea’s hypersonic weapons programs, see Choi Soo-hyang, “N. Korea's ‘hypersonic information about North Korea’s hypersonic weapons programs, see Choi Soo-hyang, “N. Korea's ‘hypersonic
missile’ appears to be at early stage of development: JCS,” Yonhap News Agency, September 29, 2021; and Ankit missile’ appears to be at early stage of development: JCS,” Yonhap News Agency, September 29, 2021; and Ankit
Panda, “The real danger of North Korea’s new hypersonic missile is not its speed,” NK News, January 10, 2022. Panda, “The real danger of North Korea’s new hypersonic missile is not its speed,” NK News, January 10, 2022.
For information about Japan’s hypersonic weapons programs, see Mike Yeo, “Japan unveils its hypersonic weapons For information about Japan’s hypersonic weapons programs, see Mike Yeo, “Japan unveils its hypersonic weapons
plans,” plans,” Defense News, March 14, 2020. For additional information about global hypersonic weapons programs, see , March 14, 2020. For additional information about global hypersonic weapons programs, see
Richard H. Speier et al., Richard H. Speier et al., Hypersonic Missile Proliferation..

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

20 20

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

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, budget and management, and their the rationale for hypersonic weapons, their expected costs, budget and management, and their
implications for strategic stability and arms control. This section provides an overview of some of implications for strategic stability and arms control. This section provides an overview of some of
these questions. 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.for hypersonic weapons or long-term funding plans.~~126~~127 Indeed, as Principal Director for 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.”~~127~~128
Given the lack of mission requirements, DOD officials have expressed a number of competing Given the lack of mission requirements, DOD officials have expressed a number of competing
perspectives about the potential costs and intended quantities of U.S. hypersonic weapons. For perspectives about the potential costs and intended quantities of U.S. hypersonic weapons. For
example, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall has stated that “hypersonics are not going to example, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall has stated that “hypersonics are not going to
be cheap anytime soon ... [and thus] we’re more likely to have relatively small inventories of be cheap anytime soon ... [and thus] we’re more likely to have relatively small inventories of
[hypersonic missiles] than large ones.”[hypersonic missiles] than large ones.”~~128~~129 Conversely, a number of other senior defense officials Conversely, a number of other senior defense officials
have stated that DOD intends to buy large quantities of hypersonic weapons. Then-DOD Director have stated that DOD intends to buy large quantities of hypersonic weapons. Then-DOD Director
of Defense Research & Engineering Mark Lewis has noted that DOD wants “to deliver of Defense Research & Engineering Mark Lewis has noted that DOD wants “to deliver
hypersonics at scale.... That means hundreds of weapons in a short period of time in the hands of hypersonics at scale.... That means hundreds of weapons in a short period of time in the hands of
the warfighter.”the warfighter.”~~129~~130 Similarly, Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White has stated that DOD Similarly, Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White has stated that DOD
seeks to “[produce] hypersonics in mass, because you have to be able to deliver capability in seeks to “[produce] hypersonics in mass, because you have to be able to deliver capability in
meaningful numbers, even to defeat the high-end targets.”meaningful numbers, even to defeat the high-end targets.”~~130~~131 These perspectives appear to be These perspectives appear to be
grounded in differing assumptions about the affordability of hypersonic weapons. Likewise, they grounded in differing assumptions about the affordability of hypersonic weapons. Likewise, they
are likely to hold different implications for the unit cost of the weapons. are likely to hold different implications for the unit cost of the weapons.
As Congress conducts oversight of U.S. hypersonic weapons programs, it may seek to obtain 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 weapons, a cost information about DOD’s evaluation of potential mission sets for hypersonic weapons, a cost
analysis of hypersonic weapons and alternative means of executing potential mission sets, and an analysis of hypersonic weapons and alternative means of executing potential mission sets, and an
assessment of the enabling technologies—such as space-based sensors or autonomous command assessment of the enabling technologies—such as space-based sensors or autonomous command
and control systems—that may be required to employ or defend against hypersonic weapons. For and control 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 example, Section 1671 of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) directs the Chairman of the Joint

~~126~~127 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics.” Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics.”
~~127~~128 Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics.” Steve Trimble, “New Long-Term Pentagon Plan Boosts Hypersonics.”
~~128~~129 John A. Tirpak, “Only Small Inventories of Hypersonic Missiles in USAF’s Future, Due to Cost,” John A. Tirpak, “Only Small Inventories of Hypersonic Missiles in USAF’s Future, Due to Cost,” Air Force
Magazine, February 15, 2022, at https://www.airforcemag.com/only-small-inventories-of-hypersonic-missiles-in-usafs-, February 15, 2022, at https://www.airforcemag.com/only-small-inventories-of-hypersonic-missiles-in-usafs-
future-due-to-cost/. future-due-to-cost/.
~~129~~130 Sydney J. Freedberg Jr., “Hypersonics: DoD Wants ‘Hundreds of Weapons’ ASAP,” Sydney J. Freedberg Jr., “Hypersonics: DoD Wants ‘Hundreds of Weapons’ ASAP,” Breaking Defense, April 24, , April 24,
2020, at https://breakingdefense.com/2020/04/hypersonics-dod-wants-hundreds-of-weapons-asap/. 2020, at https://breakingdefense.com/2020/04/hypersonics-dod-wants-hundreds-of-weapons-asap/.
~~130~~131 “Hypersonic Strike and Defense: A Conversation with Mike White,” Center for Strategic and International Studies, “Hypersonic Strike and Defense: A Conversation with Mike White,” Center for Strategic and International Studies,
June 10, 2021, at https://www.csis.org/analysis/hypersonic-strike-and-defense-conversation-mike-white. See also Jon June 10, 2021, at https://www.csis.org/analysis/hypersonic-strike-and-defense-conversation-mike-white. See also Jon
Harper, “Just In: Pentagon to Spend Billions Mass-Producing Hypersonic Weapons,” Harper, “Just In: Pentagon to Spend Billions Mass-Producing Hypersonic Weapons,” National Defense Magazine, ,
March 4, 2020, at https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2020/3/4/pentagon-to-spend-billions-mass-March 4, 2020, at https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2020/3/4/pentagon-to-spend-billions-mass-
producing-hypersonic-weapons. producing-hypersonic-weapons.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

21 21

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Chiefs of Staff, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, to submit to the 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 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 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 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 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 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.” support targeting by the United States Strategic Command and other combatant commands.”
Funding and Management Considerations
Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White has noted that DOD is prioritizing offensive Principal Director for Hypersonics Mike White has noted that DOD is prioritizing offensive
programs while it determines “the path forward to get a robust defensive strategy.”programs while it determines “the path forward to get a robust defensive strategy.”~~131~~132 This This
approach is reflected in DOD’s recent budget requests. For example, DOD requested $225.5 approach is reflected in DOD’s recent budget requests. For example, DOD requested $225.5
million for hypersonic defense programs and $4.7 billion for hypersonic weapons programs in million for hypersonic defense programs and $4.7 billion for hypersonic weapons programs in
FY2023.FY2023.~~132~~133 Similarly, in FY2022, DOD requested $247.9 million for hypersonic defense Similarly, in FY2022, DOD requested $247.9 million for hypersonic defense
programs and $3.8 billion for hypersonic weapons programs.programs and $3.8 billion for hypersonic weapons programs.~~133~~134
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.”~~134~~135 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.~~135~~136

~~131~~132 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,
at https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2019/03/21/is-the-pentagon-moving-quickly-enough-on-hypersonic-at https://www.defensenews.com/pentagon/2019/03/21/is-the-pentagon-moving-quickly-enough-on-hypersonic-
defense/. defense/.
~~132~~133 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency Defense-Wide Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency Defense-Wide
Justification Book Volume 2a of 5, p. 631, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2023/Justification Book Volume 2a of 5, p. 631, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2023/
budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB23_Justification_Book.pdf; and budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB23_Justification_Book.pdf; and Defense
Budget Overview: United States Department of Defense Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request, Office of the Under , Office of the Under
Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, April 2022, p. 2-16, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, April 2022, p. 2-16, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/
Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/FY2023/FY2023_Budget_Request_Overview_Book.pdf. Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/FY2023/FY2023_Budget_Request_Overview_Book.pdf.
~~133~~134 Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency Defense-Wide Department of Defense Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Budget Estimates, Missile Defense Agency Defense-Wide
Justification Book Volume 2a of 5, p. 569, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2022/Justification Book Volume 2a of 5, p. 569, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/fy2022/
budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB22_Justification_Book.pdf; and budget_justification/pdfs/03_RDT_and_E/RDTE_Vol2_MDA_RDTE_PB22_Justification_Book.pdf; and Defense
Budget Overview: United States Department of Defense Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Request, Office of the Under , Office of the Under
Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, May 2021, p. 3-2, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/Secretary of Defense (Comptroller)/Chief Financial Officer, May 2021, p. 3-2, at https://comptroller.defense.gov/
Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/FY2022/FY2022_Budget_Request_Overview_Book.pdf. Portals/45/Documents/defbudget/FY2022/FY2022_Budget_Request_Overview_Book.pdf.
~~134~~135 “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, at https://appropriations.house.gov/sites/Appropriations Committees, December 16, 2019, at 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.
~~135~~136 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). 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 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 into agreements with institutions of higher learning. The office went unfunded until FY2020 and was not established
until April 2020. until April 2020.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

22 22

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

DOD established the JHTO in April 2020 and announced on October 26, 2020, that it awarded 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 Texas A&M University with a $20 million contract—renewable for up to $100 million—to
manage a University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (UCAH).manage a University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (UCAH).~~136~~137 UCAH is to be overseen UCAH is to be overseen
by a group of academic researchers from Texas A&M University, the Massachusetts Institute of 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 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.~~137~~138 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.”~~138~~139
In addition, Section 1671 of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) directs the Secretary of the Army 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 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 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 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 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 to submit to the congressional defense committees an independent cost estimate of these
programs.programs.~~139~~140
Given the lack of defined mission requirements for hypersonic weapons, however, it may be Given the lack of defined mission requirements for hypersonic weapons, however, 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~~
~~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~~
~~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~~
~~could be further compounded in countries that co-locate nuclear and conventional capabilities or~~
~~facilities.~~
~~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~~
~~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~~
~~in nature, regardless of how it was perceived by the State firing the weapon, and decide that a~~
~~strategic response was warranted.”140 Differences in threat perception and escalation ladders~~

~~136~~Industrial Base and Supply Chain U.S. government officials have expressed ongoing concern about the ability of the industrial base to support future demand for hypersonic weapons—particularly if multiple weapons programs go into production at the same time.141 Indeed, a July 2022 DOD industry solicitation notes that “the expansion of industrial base capacity is required” [emphasis added] if DOD is to meet its goal of “[producing] the air-breathing engine constituent materials, subcomponents, components, and subsystems to support an initial integrated system production capacity of no less than 48 all-up-round (AUR) missiles (four to five units per month) and up to 72 AURs per year (six per month).”142 137 David Vergun, “DOD Awards Applied Hypersonics Contract to Texas A&M University,” David Vergun, “DOD Awards Applied Hypersonics Contract to Texas A&M University,” DOD News, October 26, , October 26,
2020, at https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2394438/dod-awards-applied-hypersonics-contract-to-2020, at https://www.defense.gov/Explore/News/Article/Article/2394438/dod-awards-applied-hypersonics-contract-to-
texas-am-university/. texas-am-university/.
~~137~~138 Ibid. Ibid.
~~138~~139 Ibid. Ibid.
~~139~~140 The Government Accountability Office notes DOD’s difficulty in developing accurate cost estimates for hypersonic 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 weapons programs. For example, between FY2019 and FY2020, estimates for CPS “almost doubled.” Government
Accountability Office, Accountability Office, Hypersonic Weapons: DOD Should Clarify Roles and Responsibilities to Ensure Coordination
across Development Efforts, GAO-21-378, March 22, 2021, p. 21, at https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-378. , GAO-21-378, March 22, 2021, p. 21, at https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-378.
140 United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapons.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

23

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

~~could thus result in unintended escalation. Such concerns have previously led Congress to restrict~~
~~funding for conventional prompt strike programs.141~~141 See, for example, Justin Katz, “Hypersonics too expensive, industrial base too small for services to go it alone: Admiral,” Breaking Defense, November 3, 2022, at https://breakingdefense.com/2022/11/hypersonics-too-expensive-industrial-base-too-small-for-services-to-go-it-alone-admiral/. 142 Department of the Air Force, “Request for Information (RFI) on Supplier Based Initiative for Air-Breathing Engines for Hypersonic Systems,” at https://www.businessdefense.gov/ai/dpat3/docs/AirBreathing%20Enginesfor%20HypersonicsRFFA8650225507.pdf. Congressional Research Service 23 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress Furthermore, a DOD report issued in response to Executive Order 14017 (“America’s Supply Chains”) recommends investments in the hypersonic industrial base.143 The report notes that DOD is in the process of “developing a hypersonics industrial base roadmap to inform investments over the next five years, which will guide investment decisions over this period. The roadmap will address sub-tier supplier development, and where appropriate, develop and retain competition that enables affordable production.”144 The report additionally recommends that DOD “identify partners and allies with capabilities to aid in the development and expansion of [the U.S.] hypersonics supply chain, especially for materials and components where domestic sources may not exist.”145 Congress may wish to conduct oversight of DOD’s efforts to strengthen the industrial base and supply chain for hypersonic weapons. Strategic Stability 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 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 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 facilities. 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 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 in nature, regardless of how it was perceived by the State firing the weapon, and decide that a strategic response was warranted.”146 Differences in threat perception and escalation ladders could thus result in unintended escalation. Such concerns have previously led Congress to restrict funding for conventional prompt strike programs.147
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.”~~142~~148 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.~~143~~149 Furthermore, these 143 Department of Defense, Securing Defense-Critical Supply Chains: An action plan developed in response to President Biden's Executive Order 14017, February 2022, at https://media.defense.gov/2022/Feb/24/2002944158/-1/-1/1/DOD-EO-14017-REPORT-SECURING-DEFENSE-CRITICAL-SUPPLY-CHAINS.PDF. 144 Ibid. 145 Ibid. 146 United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapons. 147 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. 148 Amy Mackinnon, “Russia’s New Missiles Are Aimed at the U.S.,” Foreign Policy, March 5, 2019, at https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/03/05/russias-new-missiles-are-aimed-at-you-weapons-hypersonic-putin-united-states-inf/. 149 David Axe, “How the U.S. Is Quietly Winning the Hypersonic Arms Race,” The Daily Beast, January 16, 2019, at 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. Congressional Research Service 24 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress ~~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
even think threating to use—not to mention to actually use—hypersonic weapons against the even think threating to use—not to mention to actually use—hypersonic weapons against the
United States ... would end well.”United States ... would end well.”~~144~~150
Section 1671 of the FY2021 NDAA (P.L. 116-283) directs the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of 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 Staff, in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, to submit to the
congressional defense committees a report that examines congressional defense committees a report that examines
How escalation risks will be addressed with regards to the use of strategic hypersonic 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 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 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-posed by foreign hypersonic systems that are potentially nuclear and conventional dual-
use capable weapons. use capable weapons.
Arms Control
Some analysts who believe that hypersonic weapons could present a threat to strategic stability or 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 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 limit the weapons’ proliferation. Proposed measures include expanding New START, negotiating
new multilateral arms control agreements, and undertaking transparency and confidence-building new multilateral arms control agreements, and undertaking transparency and confidence-building
measures.measures.~~145~~151
The New START Treaty, a strategic offensive arms treaty between the United States and Russia, 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, 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.as do hypersonic glide vehicles and hypersonic cruise missiles.~~146~~152 However, Article V of the treaty However, Article V of the treaty
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

~~141 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.~~
~~142 Amy Mackinnon, “Russia’s New Missiles Are Aimed at the U.S.,” Foreign Policy, March 5, 2019, at~~
~~https://foreignpolicy.com/2019/03/05/russias-new-missiles-are-aimed-at-you-weapons-hypersonic-putin-united-states-~~
~~inf/.~~
~~143 David Axe, “How the U.S. Is Quietly Winning the Hypersonic Arms Race,” The Daily Beast, January 16, 2019, at~~
~~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.~~
~~144~~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 the New START limits.153 However, because New START is due to expire in 2026, this may be a short-term solution.154 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 argue that a test ban would be a “highly verifiable” and “highly effective” means of preventing a potential arms race and preserving strategic stability.155 Other analysts have countered that a test 150 Jyri Raitasalo, “Hypersonic Weapons are No Game-Changer,” Jyri Raitasalo, “Hypersonic Weapons are No Game-Changer,” The National Interest, January 5, 2019, at , January 5, 2019, at
https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/hypersonic-weapons-are-no-game-changer-40632. https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/hypersonic-weapons-are-no-game-changer-40632.
~~145~~151 See United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, See United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs, Hypersonic Weapon; and; and Richard H. Speier et al., Richard H. Speier et al., Hypersonic
Missile Proliferation.
~~146~~152 In some cases, hypersonic glide vehicles may be launched from intercontinental ballistic missiles that are already 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, 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?” “Hypersonic Weapons: Strategic Asset or Tactical Tool?”
~~Congressional Research Service~~

24

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

~~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~~
~~the New START limits.147 However, because New START is due to expire in 2026, this may be a~~
~~short-term solution.148~~
~~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~~
~~argue that a test ban would be a “highly verifiable” and “highly effective” means of preventing a~~
~~potential arms race and preserving strategic stability.149 Other analysts have countered that a test~~
153 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 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, 2013, p. 139, at https://carnegieendowment.org/files/cpgs.pdf. 154 CRS Report R41219, The New START Treaty: Central Limits and Key Provisions, by Amy F. Woolf. 155 Mark Gubrud, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?” Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, August 6, 2015, at https://thebulletin.org/roundtable/test-ban-for-hypersonic-missiles/. Congressional Research Service 25 Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress 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.”~~150~~156 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.”~~151~~157 156 Tong Zhao, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?” 157

~~147 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~~
~~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,~~
~~2013, p. 139, at https://carnegieendowment.org/files/cpgs.pdf.~~
~~148 CRS Report R41219, The New START Treaty: Central Limits and Key Provisions, by Amy F. Woolf.~~
~~149 Mark Gubrud, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?” Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, August 6, 2015, at~~
~~https://thebulletin.org/roundtable/test-ban-for-hypersonic-missiles/.~~
~~150 Tong Zhao, “Test Ban for Hypersonic Missiles?”~~
~~151~~ 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.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2526

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Appendix. U.S. Hypersonic Testing ~~Infrastructure152~~Infrastructure158
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 White Oak, MD 59-inch Mach 7, 8,10, 14, and18; up 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 High Speed Test Track Hol oman High Speed Test Track
59,971 ft. track; launches 59,971 ft. track; launches
Hol oman AFB, NM Hol oman 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, at https://www.defense.gov/testing. See “Department of Defense Press Briefing on Hypersonics,” March 2, 2020, at 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/.

~~152~~158 The following information is largely derived from the 2014 report (U//FOUO) Paul F. Piscopo et al., The following information is largely 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 , and therefore, may not be current. Permission to use this
material has been granted by the Office of Science and Technology Policy. Additional information has been provided material has been granted by the Office of Science and Technology Policy. Additional information has been provided
by Dee Howard Endowed Assistant Professor Dr. Christopher S. Combs (The University of Texas at San Antonio). by Dee Howard Endowed Assistant Professor Dr. Christopher S. Combs (The University of Texas at San Antonio).
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2627

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Table A-2. DOD Open-Air Ranges
Range
Location
Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile
Kwajalein Atol , Republic of the Kwajalein Atol , 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.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2728

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

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 projectiles at Launches 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 Sandusky, OH Mach 5, 6, and 7 and up to 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 reentry LENS XX: Atmospheric reentry
simulation simulation
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
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
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2829

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Facility
Capability
Location
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
Stratolaunch Carrier Aircraft Stratolaunch Carrier Aircraft
Reusable Mach 6 test bed Reusable Mach 6 test bed
Mojave, CA Mojave, CA
University of Texas at San Antonio University of Texas at San Antonio
8-inch x 8-inch Mach 7.2 8-inch x 8-inch Mach 7.2
San Antonio, TX San Antonio, TX
Hypersonic Ludwieg Tube Hypersonic Ludwieg Tube
University of Texas at Austin University of Texas at Austin
6-inch x 7-inch Mach 2 & Mach 5 6-inch x 7-inch Mach 2 & Mach 5
Austin, TX Austin, TX
Blowdown Wind Tunnel Blowdown Wind Tunnel
Southwest Research Light-Gas Gun Southwest Research Light-Gas Gun
Quiet, flight enthalpy ballistic range Quiet, flight enthalpy ballistic range
San Antonio, TX San Antonio, TX
up to Mach 20 up to Mach 20
University of Texas at Arlington University of Texas at Arlington
1.6 MW Mach 2-6 Arc Jet 1.6 MW Mach 2-6 Arc Jet
Arlington, TX Arlington, TX
Aerodynamics Research Center Aerodynamics Research Center
13-inch Mach 4-16 Shock Tunnel 13-inch Mach 4-16 Shock Tunnel
Texas A&M National Texas A&M National
7-inch Quiet Mach 6 7-inch Quiet Mach 6
Col ege Station, TX Col ege Station, TX
Aerothermochemistry and Aerothermochemistry and
36-inch Expansion Tunnel 36-inch Expansion Tunnel
Hypersonics Laboratory Hypersonics Laboratory
9-inch x 14-inch variable Mach 5-8 9-inch x 14-inch variable Mach 5-8
California Institute of Technology California Institute of Technology
12-inch Mach 5.2 T5 Reflected 12-inch Mach 5.2 T5 Reflected
Pasadena, CA Pasadena, CA
GALCIT GALCIT
Shock Tunnel Shock Tunnel
6-inch Hypervelocity (up to Mach 6-inch Hypervelocity (up to Mach
7.1) Expansion Tube 7.1) Expansion Tube
University of Arizona Hypersonic University of Arizona Hypersonic
15-inch Mach 5 15-inch Mach 5
Tucson, AZ Tucson, AZ
Ludwieg Tube Ludwieg Tube

Air Force Academy Ludwieg Tube Air Force Academy Ludwieg Tube
20-inch Mach 6 20-inch Mach 6
Colorado Springs, CO Colorado Springs, CO
University of Tennessee Space University of Tennessee Space
18-inch x 18-inch Mach 7 18-inch x 18-inch Mach 7
Tul ahoma, TN Tul ahoma, TN
Institute Ludwieg Tube Institute Ludwieg Tube
Maryland HyperTERP Reflected Maryland HyperTERP Reflected
12-inch x 12-inch Mach 6 12-inch x 12-inch Mach 6
Col ege Park, MD Col ege Park, MD
Shock Tunnel Shock Tunnel
Florida State Polysonic Wind Florida State Polysonic Wind
12-inch x 12-inch Mach 0.2-5 12-inch x 12-inch Mach 0.2-5
Tallahassee, FL Tallahassee, FL
Tunnel Tunnel
Princeton HyperBLaF Wind Tunnel Princeton HyperBLaF Wind Tunnel
9-inch Mach 8 9-inch Mach 8
Princeton, NJ Princeton, NJ
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”; and CRS correspondence with Dee Howard Endowed Assistant Professor Dr. Christopher S. Combs Testing”; and CRS correspondence with Dee Howard Endowed Assistant Professor Dr. Christopher S. Combs
(The University of Texas at San Antonio), October 27, 2022. (The University of Texas at San Antonio), October 27, 2022.
Notes: Hypersonic wind tunnels are under construction at the fol owing universities: Texas A&M University Hypersonic wind tunnels are under construction at the fol owing universities: Texas A&M University
(Mach 10 quiet tunnel), Purdue University (Mach 8 quiet tunnel), and the University of Notre Dame (Mach 10 (Mach 10 quiet tunnel), Purdue University (Mach 8 quiet tunnel), and the University of Notre Dame (Mach 10
quiet tunnel). Additional universities, such as the University of Maryland, the Georgia Institute of Technology, quiet tunnel). Additional universities, such as the University of Maryland, the Georgia Institute of Technology,
and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, also maintain experimental hypersonic facilities or conduct and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, also maintain experimental hypersonic facilities or conduct
hypersonic research. hypersonic research.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

2930

Hypersonic Weapons: Background and Issues for Congress

Author Information

Kelley M. Sayler Kelley M. Sayler

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

Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should not be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in
its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to
copy or otherwise use copyrighted material. copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.

Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service
R45811 R45811 · VERSION 2930 · UPDATED
3031