Summary
A new study highlights that the United States lags behind Russia and China in developing hypersonic weapons, which poses a significant threat to U.S. military advantage. The Trump administration is pushing to create a missile defense system, called the “Golden Dome for America,” to counter this threat. Experts urge the U.S. to accelerate its hypersonic weapons development and collaborate with allies.
Key Facts
- Hypersonic weapons travel over five times the speed of sound and are hard to detect and intercept.
- The Atlantic Council report notes a growing gap in U.S. hypersonic weapon capabilities compared to China and Russia.
- Current U.S. missile defense systems may be unable to stop coordinated hypersonic attacks.
- The report suggests the U.S. needs more efficient, cost-effective missile systems and reusable aircraft.
- Developing hypersonic weapon systems with allies and exploring new nuclear delivery methods is recommended.
- Russia and China have already fielded several advanced hypersonic systems.
- The U.S. has various hypersonic projects in testing or limited use, like the Long Range Hypersonic Weapon.
- The government is considering more investments in defense technology and strengthening international cooperation.
