ABSTRACT
In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern warfare, the emergence of hypersonic technology has ushered in a new era of strategic capabilities and military supremacy. Hypersonic weapons systems, with their ability to strike targets with unparalleled speed and precision, have not only raised questions over deterrence but have also challenged traditional notions of defence and offence. This chapter explores the role that hypersonic weapons could play in reshaping the dynamics of conflict. Will hypersonic weapons revolutionise the conduct of war? And what are the strategic implications of hypersonic weapons and their proliferation? The advent of hypersonic weapons technology has generated a lot of noise, but there are doubts over whether the first use of these missiles on the battlefield, in Ukraine in March 2022, has lived up to the promise. This chapter sets out the key characteristics of hypersonic missiles, the challenges presented by such weapons and explores the Russian example to demonstrate why states decide to pursue hypersonic technology, as well as the potential pitfalls. It concludes that there are a range of complex technical challenges, which need to be resolved in order for hypersonic weapons to become a cost-effective capability. The current significance of hypersonic weapons systems for the character of conflict lies less in their tangible impact on the battlefield and more in terms of what they mean for the global balance of power, their strategic significance, derived from their potential to undermine an adversary’s ability to project power.
