The Geopolitical Shadow of Hypersonic Missiles
The Geopolitical Shadow of Hypersonic Missiles The rapid development and deployment of hypersonic missile technology by several global powers is dramatically reshaping the geopolitical landscape, raising concerns about escalating arms races and the potential for destabilizing conflict. This article explores the current state of hypersonic weapons, their implications for global security, and the emerging responses from various nations. Current State of Hypersonic Weaponry: As of March 20, 2025, several nations, including Russia, China, and the United States, have demonstrated hypersonic weapons capabilities. These weapons, capable of exceeding Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound), are characterized by their high speed, maneuverability, and ability to potentially evade existing missile defense systems. Russia's Avangard and Kinzhal systems, China's DF-17 and DF-ZF, and the US's Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) program represent significant advancements in...