The U.S. Department of Defense has announced the successful completion of a hypersonic missile test using a cold-gas launch system at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. This significant milestone is part of the Navy’s Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) program, aimed at delivering long-range, precision-strike capabilities from maritime platforms.
The cold-gas launch method enables the missile to be safely ejected from a ship-based system before ignition of the first stage—offering greater safety and survivability for naval assets. This technique is specifically designed for integration into future naval platforms, such as the USS Zumwalt guided missile destroyer.
“This technical achievement brings us one step closer to providing the Navy with a safe and reliable hypersonic capability,” said Vice Adm. Johnny R. Wolfe Jr., Director of Strategic Systems Programs (SSP). SSP serves as the lead designer of the Common All Up Round (AUR) being tested.
Secretary of the Navy John Phelan emphasized the broader strategic value: “The speed, range, and survivability of hypersonic weapons are key to integrated deterrence for America. When fielded, Conventional Prompt Strike will deliver unmatched capabilities to our warfighters.”
This successful US Navy hypersonic missile test follows two end-to-end flight tests of the AUR completed in 2024. The AUR is being jointly developed with the U.S. Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office, underlining the inter-service collaboration for hypersonic strike technologies.
Prior to this full-scale test, engineers conducted extensive validation trials using in-air launch facilities to perfect the cold-gas approach. Data collected from the latest test will guide final adjustments in development, production, and future deployment phases aboard U.S. Navy vessels.
Strategic Impact
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Maritime Integration: Validates sea-based deployment of hypersonic systems using cold-gas launch methods.
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Enhanced Strike Capabilities: Adds a rapid-response, high-precision strike option to the Navy’s arsenal.
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Joint Development Framework: Reinforces U.S. military modernization through inter-service cooperation.
The hypersonic missile test represents a critical step toward bolstering the U.S. military’s ability to deter advanced threats and maintain a decisive edge in modern warfare. The Department of Defense views hypersonic technologies as essential to confronting high-end adversaries and sustaining global deterrence.
