HAWC missile completes flight trials as focus turns to maturing hypersonic technology
A rendering of a HAWC hypersonic missile concept. (Image: DARPA)
Completion of HAWC flight testing means the US has two viable hypersonic missile designs that can be matured into future programmes of record.
The joint DARPA/USAF Hypersonic Airbreathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) has completed its final planned flight test. The Lockheed Martin version of the HAWC scramjet-powered missile has provided critical data to inform Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) hypersonic technology maturation work.
The most recent flight demonstrated ‘improved capabilities and performance’ according to DARPA. This means the US now has two feasible hypersonic airbreathing missile designs (from Lockheed Martin and Raytheon) to use as the basis for future weapon systems.
Andrew Knoedler, HAWC programme manager, said: ‘HAWC [has] brought a wealth of data and progress to the airbreathing hypersonic community. The industry teams attacked the challenge of scramjet-powered vehicles in earnest, and we had the grit and luck to make it work.’
Related Articles
Software-defined technology is ‘democratising’ electronic warfare, says DARPA official
The future is hypersonic strike for Zumwalt destroyers
Airbus joins UK efforts to defend against hypersonic threats
Although the HAWC programme has executed its final phase, data analysis continues and DARPA plans to advance maturation in the More Opportunities with HAWC (MOHAWC) effort by building and flying more vehicles that build upon HAWC’s advances. These missiles will expand the operating envelope of the scramjet and provide technology on-ramps for future programmes of record.
More from Air Warfare
-
![With a wave of upgrades, the MQ-9B is ready for high-tech warfare]()
With a wave of upgrades, the MQ-9B is ready for high-tech warfare
The modern battlefield is evolving rapidly — threats range from stealthy cruise missiles to coordinated drone swarms. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is meeting these challenges head-on with a series of transformative upgrades to its MQ-9B SkyGuardian® and maritime SeaGuardian® remotely piloted aircraft.
-
![June drone digest: Landmark CCA contract and deep-strike capability flourishes at Eurosatory]()
June drone digest: Landmark CCA contract and deep-strike capability flourishes at Eurosatory
June 2026 saw the landmark acquisition of the first fighter-type Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), while the month also hosted Eurosatory, which showcased deep-strike capabilities and production deals with the civilian industry.
-
![BAE Systems' UK Combat Air Demonstrator closes in on final assembly]()
BAE Systems' UK Combat Air Demonstrator closes in on final assembly
The first render for the demonstrator was unveiled in July 2025, with BAE Systems now aiming for the start of final assembly by the end of 2026 to prepare the aircraft for first flight by 2027.
-
![Rapid APKWS integration sparks “strong” demand from Typhoon customers]()
Rapid APKWS integration sparks “strong” demand from Typhoon customers
The recent operational use and success of the APKWS laser-guidance kit on the UK RAF's Typhoons has driven demand from other Eurofighter customers for integration of the system on their own combat aircraft fleet, according to BAE Systems.
