US Navy Successfully Tests Hypersonic Missile Defense
A Major Defense Milestone
In a significant step forward for defense technology, the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG-91) has successfully completed a simulated engagement with a live hypersonic missile. The test, known as FTX-40, took place on March 24 off the coast of the Pacific Missile Range Facility on the island of Kauai.
The Test
The test involved a C-17 Globemaster III jet transport carrying a Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) equipped with a Hypersonic Target Vehicle-1 (HTV-1) in a drop canister. The missile was parachuted from the plane and then released, with a rocket stage boosting the hypersonic vehicle to a high enough altitude that it reached speeds well in excess of Mach 5 while gliding down.
Meanwhile, USS Pinckney was tasked with conducting an intercept, using a digital missile to simulate the launch of a virtual Standard Missile-6. This is the sharp end of the Aegis Combat System, which was used to detect, track, and simulate engagement of the hypersonic target.
The Logic Behind the Test
Using a digital missile to intercept a real, live missile may seem unusual, but there’s a serious logic to it. The test was designed to answer specific questions and keep a tight control of the exercise by removing as many variables as possible. The goal was to demonstrate the ability of the Aegis system to find the missile, track it, and give the order to launch.
The Future of Aegis
The Navy is particularly keen on this latest test because it shows off the remarkable ability of the Aegis system to evolve to handle missions that would stretch other systems to their limits. Aegis is currently installed in 110 ships across seven navies, with another 71 ships planned. Over its half-century career, Aegis has been constantly upgraded and has shown surprisingly advanced capabilities as a ballistic missile defense.
Conclusion
The successful test of the USS Pinckney’s Aegis Combat System against a live hypersonic missile is a significant milestone in the development of hypersonic defense capabilities. The test demonstrates the ability of the Aegis system to detect, track, and simulate engagement of hypersonic targets, and lays the groundwork for future live-fire tests. As the Navy continues to upgrade its Aegis system to handle hypersonic threats, this test is an important step forward in ensuring the safety and security of American sailors and assets.
