Pentagon Slows And Adapts Long-Range Hypersonic Defense Plan

SM-3 Block IIA interceptor

A Glide Phase Interceptor would complement existing sea-based missile defenses, such as this SM-3 Block IIA interceptor fired by the USS McCampbell during a Feb. 8 test.

Credit: U.S. Missile Defense Agency
The U.S. will take even longer to field a purpose-built, long-range hypersonic defense system expected by the 2030s, despite a $1 billion cash injection from Japan, but Pentagon officials say they can speed up a less capable alternative by the end of the decade. The threat posed by offensive...
Steve Trimble

Steve covers military aviation, missiles and space for the Aviation Week Network, based in Washington DC.

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