What Is The Fastest Us Missile? Exploring Unprecedented Speed In American Arsenal

Do the United States possess any hypersonic missiles? Several years ago, it was confirmed that Russia and China have advanced hypersonic missile capabilities. However, as of July 14, 2023, the United States has not yet developed or deployed any hypersonic missiles.

The speed of US hypersonic missiles has been a topic of interest, particularly with the development of air-launched hypersonic glide vehicles utilizing DARPA’s Tactical Boost Glide technology. According to a CRS report dated August 10, 2023, these missiles are designed to reach astonishing speeds, falling within the impressive range of Mach 6.5 to 8. This means they can travel at speeds ranging from approximately 4,960 to 6,174 miles per hour, showcasing their remarkable velocity and potential for rapid deployment.

The title of your topic, “What is the fastest missile?” leads us to the BrahMos missile, a remarkable achievement in missile technology. The BrahMos missile is the result of a collaborative effort between Russia and India. This supersonic cruise missile is known for holding the title of the fastest cruise missile globally. It boasts a staggering top speed of Mach 3.5, equivalent to approximately 4,175 kilometers per hour (or about 2,596 miles per hour). This incredible speed enables the BrahMos missile to swiftly engage and neutralize both naval vessels and ground-based targets, while also effectively evading enemy air defenses. As of May 21, 2023, this missile remains at the forefront of missile technology, demonstrating its significance in modern warfare.