US holds three tests to advance hypersonic weapon programs, Pentagon says
(VOVWORLD) - The US Navy and Army tested hypersonic weapon component prototypes this week that will inform development of new weapons, the Pentagon said, calling the three tests successful.
 The Pentagon logo is seen behind the podium in the briefing room at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, US, January 8, 2020. (REUTERS) |
Hypersonic weapons travel in the upper atmosphere at more than five times the speed of sound, or about 6,200 kph.
These tests "demonstrated advanced hypersonic technologies, capabilities, and prototype systems in a realistic operating environment," the Pentagon said in a statement.
The United States has actively pursued the development of hypersonic weapons as a part of its conventional prompt global strike program since the early 2000s.