U.S. Air Force Tests Air-launched Hypersonic Weapon in Pacific Ocean

The U.S. Air Force announced on Tuesday the completion of a test for an air-launched hypersonic weapon in the Pacific Ocean.

The test, which took place on Sunday, is believed to be the final evaluation of the hypersonic AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW), and was carried out with a B-52H Stratofortress departing from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. While the Air Force labeled the test a success, specific details regarding the weapon's speed were not disclosed. However, previous tests have indicated that the ARRW can travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound.

The ARRW program has faced challenges in testing. The last test took place in August 2023, five months after an ARRW test failed. U.S.A.F. Secretary Frank Kendall said the service won’t be buying the ARRW following the failed March test. The ARRW was supposed to be the U.S. military's first hypersonic weapon to reach operational status. A successful test happened in December 2022, with a peak velocity five times the speed of sound, following several failed efforts. Despite setbacks, the Air Force is under pressure to demonstrate progress in hypersonic capabilities, especially in light of advancements by rival nations.

Looking ahead, the Air Force is set to conclude its rapid prototyping program this year, with no funding allocated for ARRW procurement or further research and development in 2025. However, the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile program remains a focus, with a proposed budget of $517 million aimed at its continued development.

The United States is not the only country investing in hypersonic weapons. Russia has reportedly deployed hypersonic missiles in conflicts such as Ukraine, and China has conducted tests despite denying such actions in official statements.