The future is hypersonic strike for Zumwalt destroyers
USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) conducts a live-fire missile exercise at the Point Mugu Test Range. (Photo: USN)
The Zumwalt class will be the first US Navy ships to field hypersonic missiles.
The US Navy is evolving the Zumwalt-class (DDG-1000) destroyers into what it calls its first ‘offensive strike platform’.
The first step in developing the capability will be fielding the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) weapon, which will make the class the first in the USN to field a hypersonic missile.
The service plans to field additional surface strike capabilities onto the destroyers, including the SM-6 and future weapons that can best use the Mk57 vertical launching system (VLS).
The Mk57 is wider and deeper than previous launchers, allowing the Zumwalt to more easily meet the USN’s requirement to deploy larger,
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow]()
What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow
Holographic and 3D technologies have been lauded by some for their ability to provide technical and operational advantages for military training and planning. But is the hype truly justified?
-
![Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme]()
Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme
Shephard talked to multiple experts about the most pressing concerns and considerations regarding the air defence system advocated by President Trump.
-
![Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans]()
Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans
While industry reception to the SDR has been positive, questions still remain from analyst and trade associations about what this could mean for future investment and the future UK Defence Industrial Strategy.
-
![UK Strategic Defence Review puts emphasis on autonomy, airpower and munitions]()
UK Strategic Defence Review puts emphasis on autonomy, airpower and munitions
The UK’s Strategic Defence Review (SDR) was launched as one of the first acts of the UK’s new Labour Government in June last year. The review has recommended a major big-picture reform of the country’s forces.
-
![Foreshadowing of UK defence review suggests it is light on programme details]()
Foreshadowing of UK defence review suggests it is light on programme details
The UK’s Strategic Defence Review (SDR) was designed to answer two questions: What is needed to fix UK defence and make it fit for the 2040s, and what do you get for a fixed financial profile? The SDR outlines that work still needs to be done on specifics.
