Pentagon pushes hypersonic weapons production as startups slash costs
Dark Eagle missiles could cost over $40 million each, but startups like Castelion aim to produce hypersonic weapons for under $500,000 apiece.
TL;DR
- The U.S. military is increasing its investment in hypersonic weapons, which are maneuverable and travel at speeds five times the speed of sound.
- The high cost of current hypersonic weapons, such as the Army's Dark Eagle ($40M+) and Navy's Zumwalt-equipped missiles ($70M), is a significant concern, with some projects facing delays.
- Startups like Castelion are developing more affordable hypersonic missiles, aiming for production costs under $500,000 and establishing large-scale manufacturing facilities.
- Increased testing frequency, facilitated by programs like Rocket Lab's HASTE, is being employed to accelerate the development and refinement of hypersonic technologies.
- Hypersonic weapons offer advantages in speed, maneuverability, and evading defense systems, potentially requiring fewer units for missions compared to traditional missiles.