Dark Eagle: The 3,500 km range of the US hypersonic weapon.
The US military has released new information about the Dark Eagle: a range of approximately 3,500 km, a speed of Mach 5+, launched from a towed vehicle, and using a "speed-up-and-glide" mechanism.
The US military has just revealed more details about the Dark Eagle long-range hypersonic weapon program, notably its range of approximately...3,500 kmand speedMach 5+The system is described as being designed to hit high-value, time-sensitive targets from very long distances.
Background of the announcement and new range figures
Information was presented during the visit to the base.Redstone Arsenalin the stateNet, where the US Secretary of DefensePete HegsethReports have been received regarding the capabilities of Dark Eagle.
According toLieutenant General Francisco LozanoAccording to the Director of Hypersonic, Directed Energy, Space, and Rapid Procurement Programs for the U.S. Army, the Dark Eagle has a range of approximately...3,500 kmThis number is higher than the level.2,775 kmonce wasPentagonpreviously announced.
Technical analysis: the "acceleration-glide" mechanism and flight characteristics.
Dark Eagle is described as a hypersonic weapon system.Launched from the ground using a trailer, using the mechanism“boost-glide”After launch, the missile propelled the vehicle to hypersonic speeds, exceedingMach 5(at five times the speed of sound), then separate and maneuver through the atmosphere to approach the target.
According to the source, three main characteristics are emphasized:very high speed,mobilityandlow flight pathThis combination of factors is believed to make Dark Eagle difficult to detect and intercept by modern defense systems.
The summary of parameters is given in the source.
| Category | Information by source |
|---|---|
| Shooting range | Approximately 3,500 km (higher than the 2,775 km previously announced by the Pentagon) |
| Speed | Mach 5+ |
| Mechanism | “boost-glide” |
| Launch platform | Launched from the ground using a trailer |
| Warhead weight | Less than 13.6 kg |
Small warhead and a mechanism of inflicting damage based on kinetic energy.
An Army officer said the missile's warheadweighing less than 13.6 kgIt is much smaller than typical long-range assault weapons. However, according to sources, the Dark Eagle's destructive effectiveness relies primarily on...kinetic energyBorn from extremely high speed.
The warhead is described as having the capabilitydispersed into many fragments, creating an effect over an equally large area.a large parking lotThis design is said to be particularly effective when attacking "soft" targets such asradar station,air defense systemorcommand center.
Military analysts quoted in the article suggest that even with a small warhead, the hypersonic glide vehicle can still inflict significant damage thanks to itsstrong impact force.
Operational perspective: time-sensitive targets and rapid strikes.
According to the description, Dark Eagle is designed to hit high-value, time-sensitive targets at long range. With its hypersonic speed, the system is considered a powerful tool.quick attackThis provides the U.S. with more options in emergency situations.
The source also stated that low flight paths and atmospheric maneuverability were key factors contributing to the mission's increased difficulty.detection and interceptionof the enemy's defenses.
Implementation program and related systems
Dark Eagle is expected to becomefirst hypersonic weaponIt is deployed in the U.S. Army. Simultaneously, the U.S. Navy is developing the system.Intermediate-Range Conventional Prompt Strike, described as using the same missile architecture butlaunched from surface ships and submarines.
Sources indicate that new revelations show the U.S. Army remains confident in the effectiveness of the Dark Eagle, despite previous test reports questioning its combat capabilities against certain types of targets.
Impact: A step forward in hypersonic technology competition.
The release of more details about Dark Eagle indicates that the US is moving closer to officially deploying hypersonic weapons, and reflects the growing focus on long-range, high-speed strike capabilities in the global military technology competition.
According to IE.