The U.S. Air Force carried out the final test of the hypersonic AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon on Sunday, but did not confirm if the test was successful. The test was conducted by a B-52H Stratofortress at the Reagan Test Site in the Marshall Islands after taking off from Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. The focus was on the fully operational ARRW prototype made by Lockheed Martin.
The Air Force did not disclose the test’s objectives but emphasized that valuable insights into the capabilities of the hypersonic weapon were gained. The test aimed to advance hypersonic programs and enhance test and evaluation capabilities for future development. This is part of the Air Force’s efforts to develop air-launched hypersonic weapons, with ARRW being one of the main programs.
Although the ARRW program faced challenges in testing, the Air Force plans to conclude its rapid prototyping program this year. The budget request includes funding for the development of the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile program, which is seen as more promising than the ARRW program. The results of the final ARRW test will guide the Air Force in determining its hypersonic capabilities moving forward.
