DARPA launches hypersonic missile program to rival China

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has launched a program to develop next-generation hypersonic cruise missiles. The initiative focuses on air-breathing engine technology, which allows missiles to extract oxygen directly from the atmosphere. This method reduces overall weight and provides more space for fuel or combat payloads compared to traditional rocket engines.

The program is a response to China's recent deployment of air-breathing hypersonic weapons, such as the YJ-19 anti-ship missile and the CJ-1000 long-range missile. These Chinese systems utilize scramjet technology to strike targets on land, at sea, or in the air.

DARPA is seeking to develop entirely new technologies in engines, fuels, propulsion stages, and systems to withstand the extreme temperatures encountered during hypersonic flight. The resulting missiles could vary in size, ranging from tactical aircraft-mounted versions to larger systems launched from bombers or ground platforms.