Researchers consider variable-range hypersonic rockets to deliver weapons payloads at changing distances
ARLINGTON, Va. – U.S. military researchers are teaming with Lockheed Martin Corp. to develop an intermediate-range ground-launched hypersonic weapon with an advanced booster than can deliver warheads at several different ranges. The National Interest reports. Continue reading original article
The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:
12 March 2021 -- The project is called OpFires or Operational Fires, and seeks to mate a variable-range hypersonic missile from the ground to attack valuable targets on land or at sea, like relocatable missiles and enemy surface warships.
This hypersonic rocket will be throttleable to deliver accurate weapons payloads. While it’s typically bad if a rocket turns off while in flight, this could be necessary to hit targets that are closer in or on the move. Once the project is completed, it could be put to good use by the U.S. Marine Corps.
One mission for which Marine Corps Reconnaissance Marines are training would see Marines and Airmen perform an extremely rapid infiltration and exfiltration on enemy-held islands in the Pacific. Once secure, Air Force transports would land and unload HIMARS long-range rocket artillery, which then would target enemy surface ships.
John Keller, chief editor
Military & Aerospace Electronics
