World Under Growing Shadow of Hypersonic Weapons Race
Russia recently used a hypersonic missile against Ukraine, as the global arms race to develop these weapons heats up. Countries are advancing their own hypersonic missile technology by adding more range and glide capabilities.
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Hypersonic missile technology is sparking a new arms race among world powers. Traveling at speeds exceeding Mach 5, these weapons combine unprecedented speed and maneuverability, making them nearly impossible to detect or intercept. Unlike traditional ballistic missiles, hypersonic missiles can evade defense systems through unpredictable trajectories, posing significant challenges to global stability.
The deployment of Russia's Oreshnik missile in Ukraine marked the first use of this particular advanced weapon in combat, escalating the stakes of modern warfare. China, a leading player in hypersonic technology, has developed the DF-17, a hypersonic glide vehicle with a reported range of up to 2,500 kilometers. Experts believe it would be China’s weapon of choice in a Taiwan Strait conflict.
Meanwhile, India recently tested its first long-range hypersonic missile, joining a growing list of nations advancing their arsenal. The United States, however, remains behind China and Russia in hypersonic capabilities and is working to close the gap.
The strategic implications of these weapons are profound. While hypersonic capabilities are built on existing technologies, they represent a significant evolution in warfare. Experts debate whether hypersonic missiles are a revolutionary leap or a transitional phase before defenses catch up. Nonetheless, the lack of effective countermeasures underscores the urgency for advanced defense systems.
Adding to the tension, leaders like Vladimir Putin have issued stark warnings about using hypersonic missiles with nuclear payloads. The use of artificial intelligence in missile decision-making has also sparked concerns over the potential for errors with catastrophic consequences.
Clarification: The Oreshnik is the new experimental hypersonic missile with a glide capability, making it hard to detect. On November 21, Russia fired its new and advanced Oreshnik at Ukraine, the first use of this type of hypersonic missile in war.
