Long-range strike: US announces European hypersonic missile deployment
The LRHW deployed to Exercise Resolute Hunter in 2024 during which it was assigned to Bravo Battery, 5th Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery (Long Range Fires Battalion), 1st Multi-Domain Task Force. (Photo: US Army)
The US plans to deploy a suite of long-range precision strike missiles, including developmental hypersonics, to counter the advanced precision strike systems of Russia and China. It will form part of the US Army’s Multi Domain Task Force (MDTF) to enhance European long-range fires capabilities and include SM-6 air defence, Tomahawk cruise missiles and HIMARS batteries.
The US has announced its intention to begin deploying a suite of long-range precision strike missiles including developmental hypersonics to Germany from 2026 in a bid to increase the long-range fires capabilities of European powers, according to a joint statement released in July by the White House.
The US Army’s MDTF in Germany will host the capabilities that will include SM-6 air defence and Tomahawk cruise missiles, as well as developmental hypersonic missiles, according to the statement. The MDTF has been established as the US Army’s answer to the sophistication and reach of Russian and Chinese long-range precision strike
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
-
![NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise]()
NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise
The Crystal Arrow Exercise is being used by NATO as a way to put new equipment such as uncrewed ground and aerial vehicles into the hands of alliance users, particularly Latvian and Baltic forces.
-
![UK finally signs $1.35 billion British Army howitzer deal but with scaled-back numbers]()
UK finally signs $1.35 billion British Army howitzer deal but with scaled-back numbers
The deal will provide the British Army with five times the number of guns it currently operates as an interim measure, but it still leaves the force with comparatively fewer weapons than partner forces.
-
![CSG’s new CFL-120 Karpat medium tank demonstrates move to modularity]()
CSG’s new CFL-120 Karpat medium tank demonstrates move to modularity
Built using proven parts across three countries, the CFL-120 uses a Turkish chassis, an Italian turret and Czech integration to reflect a modular approach to tank design.
-
![Team LionStrike fleshes out UK Land Mobility Programme bid]()
Team LionStrike fleshes out UK Land Mobility Programme bid
At an industry press day this week, Shephard's Christopher Foss looked more closely at Team LionStrike's line-up.
-
![NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine]()
NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
-
![SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display]()
SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display
The array of platforms on display at SAHA 2026 showcased the diversity of equipment now provided by the Turkish defence industry.
