The development of hypersonic weapons has shaken the military world. Among American leadership, murmurs of a Sputnik moment grow louder. Near-peer adversaries threaten to outpace the United States. Yet, in the face of unprecedented adversity, our armed forces have risen to the challenge. In 2023, American hypersonic weapons were fielded for the first time in history - and we spoke to Colonel Ian Humphrey, Project Manager for Long Range Hypersonic Weapon Integration in the Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office. In this exclusive interview, we uncover lessons learned, hard realities, and unparalleled opportunities in America's drive to modernize our strike capabilities for 21st-century conflict. 

Hypersonic technologies are becoming ever more critical as we prepare for a future where a near-peer conflict is becoming a real possibility. In this interview, Dr Mark J Lewis delivers a hard-hitting analysis of the state of hypersonics globally. He answers a range of questions, from their deployment of the War in Ukraine to responding to the uncertainty felt by Congress on the role the technology should play. Few experts can talk so freely and candidly on the topic making this piece a must-read for anyone interested in this evolving domain.

RUSI Senior Researcher Justin Bronk shares his views on Hypersonic use by the Russian Forces in Ukraine. His commentary:

• Puts the use of the technology into context beyond the immediate conflict,
• Gives insight onto how the Kinzhal works,
• Shares his thoughts on how the Kinzhal integrates into Russian doctrine thought,