Hypersonic threats force Pentagon to modernise its missile defence architecture
The NDAA for FY2024 has allocated nearly 2.5 billion to hypersonic-related programmes including the Glide Phase Interceptor. (Image source: Raytheon Missiles and Defense)
The US DoD has been updating policies, enhancing partnerships with allies and acquiring new sensors and systems.
In order to face threats posed by Russian and Chinese hypersonic capabilities, the US military has been seeking ways to modernise its missile defence architecture. The Pentagon has been conducting several efforts in the area including updating policies, enhancing partnerships with allies and acquiring new sensors and systems.
‘The problem right now is the enemy is not going ballistic,’ Richard Ritter, program executive for sensors, command and control at the Missile Defense Agency, claimed during a recent webinar conducted by the US-based think tank CSIS. ‘They are rapidly going to manoeuvring and other types of weapons not just hypersonic’,
The National
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Eurosatory 2026: GDELS and Thales combine proven tech to create reduced-risk CUAS]()
Eurosatory 2026: GDELS and Thales combine proven tech to create reduced-risk CUAS
Both Thales and GDELS shone a spotlight on their uncrewed and counter-drone efforts at Eurosatory 2026, highlighting the integration of mature technologies with stable C2 systems that are open to agnostic additions and expansion.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: IDV expands with new Viking and CL2X UGV]()
Eurosatory 2026: IDV expands with new Viking and CL2X UGV
At Eurosatory 2026, uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) are front and centre of IDV’s display, with a new variant of the Viking and the new CL2X on show.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Ukraine drives European artillery renaissance]()
Eurosatory 2026: Ukraine drives European artillery renaissance
European governments have ordered nearly 1,400 self-propelled howitzers and more than 400 multiple-launch rocket systems since 2022 as lessons from Ukraine reshape long-range fires requirements across the continent.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Nordic CV90 contract to be signed this year as best offer submitted]()
Eurosatory 2026: Nordic CV90 contract to be signed this year as best offer submitted
The four-nation Nordic Programme to buy BAE Systems Hägglunds CV90 MkIV tracked vehicles is an ambitious effort for the partner countries to buy almost identical vehicles and is worth billions of dollars.
-
![Eurosatory 2026: Robots rule as large and wheeled systems with articulated legs stand out]()
Eurosatory 2026: Robots rule as large and wheeled systems with articulated legs stand out
Dozens of uncrewed ground vehicles have been on display at Eurosatory 2026, with particularly notable platforms including VisionWave's Varan and Patria's planned uncrewed TRACKX.
