Cape Canaveral Hosts Successful Hypersonic Missile Test
At the historic Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, a significant milestone was achieved as the Army and Navy collaborated on a hypersonic missile test. The Dark Eagle Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon system was launched from Space Launch Complex 46, a site known for Astra Space rocket launches in 2022.
The missile was launched using sophisticated equipment, including a battery operations center and a transporter erector launcher, successfully streaking over the Atlantic Ocean. A Department of Defense press release confirmed the test’s success, marking it as the second test of the year but the first to involve live fire.
The test was conducted by the Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office along with Navy Strategic Systems Programs. Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth stated, “This test builds on several flight tests in which the Common Hypersonic Glide Body achieved hypersonic speed at target distances and demonstrates that we can put this capability in the hands of the warfighter.”
Hypersonic missiles, which can be deployed on land or sea, are known for their ability to travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound, making them highly challenging to intercept once launched.
Vice Admiral Johnny R. Wolfe Jr., Director of the Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs, highlighted the cooperative effort between the Navy and Army, stating, “This test is a demonstration of the successful Navy and Army partnership that has allowed us to develop a transformational hypersonic weapon system that will deliver unmatched capability to meet joint warfighting needs.”
With the Navy taking the lead in the missile design, this partnership aims to expedite the deployment of operational weapons and reduce costs. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro remarked, “This test marks an important milestone in the development of one of our most advanced weapons systems. As we approach the first delivery of this capability to our Army partners, we will continue to press forward to integrate Conventional Prompt Strike into our Navy surface and subsurface ships to help ensure we remain the world’s preeminent fighting force.”
For more information, visit the Orlando Sentinel.
