The test utilised the Navy’s cold-gas launch approach, a method that ejects the missile from the launch platform before the first-stage ignition, ensuring a safe distance from the ship. “The cold-gas approach allows the Navy to eject the missile from the platform and achieve a safe distance above the ship prior to first stage ignition,” said Vice Adm. Johnny R. Wolfe Jr., Director of the Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs.
The demonstration was part of the Navy’s development of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) capability, which will use a common hypersonic missile system in partnership with the U.S. Army. “This technical achievement brings SSP one step closer to fulfilling our role of providing a safe and reliable hypersonic capability to our Navy,” Wolfe added.
Secretary of the Navy John Phelan highlighted the strategic value of the programme, stating: “The speed, range, and survivability of hypersonic weapons are key to integrated deterrence for America. When fielded, Conventional Prompt Strike will deliver unmatched capabilities to our warfighters.”
Lockheed Martin Corp. is the primary contractor for the hypersonic weapon system, which represents a major leap in the U.S. military’s conventional strike capabilities. The CPS programme previously completed two end-to-end flight tests in 2024, validating the All Up Round (AUR) missile system that will be shared by both Navy and Army forces.
An extensive engineering and test campaign was conducted using an In-Air Launch test facility to validate the cold-gas system prior to this full-scale flight test. Data collected from this launch will inform further development and production of the AUR, as well as guide preparations for deployment on naval surface ships.
This effort comes amid growing competition in hypersonic technology, with Russia and China also developing similar systems. The U.S. aims to maintain its technological edge by accelerating the fielding of sea-based hypersonic capabilities.
The Navy’s hypersonic initiative enhances the U.S.’s ability to deter, and if necessary, defeat strategic competitors. The combination of range, accuracy, lethality, and survivability offered by hypersonic weapons is expected to complement existing capabilities and provide a decisive advantage in future conflicts.
Source: U.S. Navy.
