Rockets can reach hypersonic speeds in two ways. A rocket can be launched with a large combustion engine, similar to a space shuttle. This briefly leaves the atmosphere, after which the rocket detaches. He then dives back, where he goes to his target with a sliding system. This allows it to change direction during flight.
The second variant works like a cruise missile. This one has a scramjetengine on board, which takes in air at high speeds. This is mixed with fuel, which means that hypersonic speeds can be achieved with a relatively light engine. This means that the rocket does not have to fly outside the atmosphere.
Due to the high speeds, the rocket must be able to withstand extreme temperatures: because of the friction with the air, the head needs extra protection, leaving less space for an explosive charge. So today’s rockets are primarily designed to inflict damage through their speed, not through an explosion.
Intercept more difficult
The fact that the rocket flies lower than comparable rockets and can maneuver makes it more difficult to detect. Current defense systems are prepared for missiles that are either slower or fly in a wider arc. “You give the enemy less time to detect, identify, make a decision and fire a defense missile,” said Bolder.
That’s why there is shock when a country like North Korea says it has them: no country yet has a defense system that can detect and intercept hypersonic missiles. “You always see that in arms races: the advantage always lies with the offensive side, after that comes the defense,” says Pronk.
This does not mean that these types of weapons are now decisive in warfare: the technology is expensive, extremely complex and the explosive charge is often small. “Not many have been made yet, and certainly not enough to make its use worthwhile,” Bolder says. “Other weapons, such as nuclear weapons, are still enough to deter countries from using them.”
Russia is the furthest in this technique: it is currently the only country that claims to have hypersonic missiles operational. The United States, China and India have successfully tested; France and the United Kingdom are in the development phase.
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