The US Army has assigned the name “Dark Eagle” to its new long-range hypersonic weapon (LRHW) as it approaches the final stages of its testing phase.
Dark Eagle consists of a ground-launched missile equipped with a hypersonic glide body and associated transport, support, and fire control equipment.
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This ground-based, vehicle-mounted armament is designed with a reported range of 1,725 miles. The missile’s design focuses on agility, which could enhance its elusiveness and resistance to interception efforts.
According to the US Department of Defense (DoD), the Dark Eagle “brings to mind the power and determination of our country and its Army as it represents the spirit and lethality of the Army and Navy’s hypersonic weapon endeavours”.
This development is part of a joint effort between the US Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office and the US Navy Strategic Systems Programs.
It is expected to deliver both land and sea variants of a hypersonic weapon system to address joint warfighting needs.
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By GlobalDataIn December 2024, a successful end-to-end flight test was completed for the common All-Up Round.
It was the weapon’s second full-system flight trial of the year, marking a significant milestone with its inaugural live-fire exercise using both a Battery Operations Centre and a Transporter Erector Launcher.
US Army acquisition, logistics and technology, senior official performing the duties of assistant secretary, Patrick Mason said: “Hypersonic weapons will complicate adversaries’ decision calculus, strengthening deterrence.
“Their speed, accuracy and versatility are befitting its new popular name, Dark Eagle.”
Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman are reportedly developing the missile component of the LRHW.
Last year, Lockheed Martin received a $756m contract from the US Army to enhance the LRHW’s capabilities.
This contract aims to strengthen the nation’s hypersonic strike potential by supplying additional batteries, equipment, and logistical support.
