The United States has now static-tested a launcher for a hypersonic missile, but not yet the missile itself, according to a Navy announcement accompanied by a videotape. The Office of the Navy Chief of Information announced on Oct. 29: “The Navy Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) successfully conducted a second test of the First Stage Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) on October 28, 2021, in Promontory, Utah, as part of the development of the Navy’s Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) offensive hypersonic strike capability and the Army’s Long Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW). The offensive weapon systems will enable precise and timely strike capability against deep inland targets in contested environments.”
“Today’s successful test brings us one step closer to the design validation of our new hypersonic missile that will be fielded by both the Navy and the Army,” said. Wolfe’s Navy department is the lead designer for the common hypersonic missile,” remarked Vice Adm. Johnny R. Wolfe Jr, Director, Navy’s Strategic Systems Programs.
