The U.S. Air Force recently conducted a test of a hypersonic missile over the Pacific Ocean. The test, which took place on Sunday, involved a B-52H Stratofortress launching the missile from a base in Guam.
An Air Force spokesperson stated that the test focused on the performance of the hypersonic missile and provided valuable insights into the capabilities of this cutting-edge technology. The objective of the test was to gather unique data to support various hypersonic programs and to enhance test and evaluation capabilities for the development of advanced hypersonic systems.
The test was carried out at the Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, with the B-52H Stratofortress launching a full prototype operational hypersonic missile known as the All-Up-Round AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon. The test aimed to assess the end-to-end performance of the missile.
Internationally, there is a growing interest in hypersonic weapons, with countries like China, Russia, and North Korea making advancements in this technology. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently oversaw a ground jet test of a new-type intermediate-range hypersonic missile at the Sohae Satellite Launching Ground. The missile is designed to target U.S. territories in the Pacific region, including Guam.
Kim Jong Un emphasized the strategic importance of the new missile, claiming it could reach the U.S. mainland. He praised the success of the test and highlighted the missile's capability to deter potential adversaries.
The U.S. Air Force's hypersonic missile test underscores the ongoing developments in military technology and the global competition in hypersonic capabilities.
