Hypersonic weapons could jeopardise global security

Abstract

Subject The threat to global security from developing hypersonic weapons. Significance Russia, the United States and China are developing hypersonic weapons. These systems are capable of travelling at Mach 5 or even faster, and are primarily conventional, not nuclear. The United States is pushing hypersonic missiles as part of its prompt global strike (PGS) capability, which will give Washington the ability to hit any target in the world within one hour of the order being given. Russia is particularly concerned that these weapons are primarily for use against its own nuclear arsenals. Impacts Russian hypersonic missiles will initially be air-launched from carrier aircraft and are expected to be operational by 2020. For Russia and China, hypersonic weapons are attractive for their potential to overcome US missile defences. These weapons could catalyse a new arms race between Russia, the United States and China.