Gambit.

This is coolbert:

The hypersonic gap has been closed? American know-how with a proposal as was researched almost seventy years ago what was previously not worthy of consideration now is?

Admittedly this article is lengthy and discusses some arcane technology. But is worth the read.

"DARPA’S NEW MISSILE HINTS AT TRULY GAME-CHANGING TECHNOLOGY"

From www.sandboxx.us the story by Alex Hollings | July 26, 2022. The tip courtesy isegoria.net

"Last week, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) quietly unveiled a new high-speed missile program called Gambit. The program is meant to leverage a novel method of propulsion that could have far-reaching implications not just in terms of weapons development, but for high-speed aircraft and even in how the Navy’s warships are powered.

"This propulsion system, known as a rotation detonation engine (RDE), has the potential to be lighter than existing jet engines while offering a significant boost in power output, range, and fuel efficiency.:

[....]

"The concept behind rotation detonation engines dates back to the 1950s. In the United States, Arthur Nicholls, a professor emeritus of aerospace engineering at the University of Michigan, was among the first to attempt to develop a working RDE design.

[....]

"But Gambit isn’t the first new weapon program to leverage rotation detonation engine technology. According to the Air Force Research Lab, RDE technology could make high-speed weapons much more affordable, which is of particular import following a recent Defense Department analysis that indicated the hypersonic (Mach 5+) weapons in development for the Air Force may cost as much as $106 million each."

Yowser! There it is in the nutshell as they say. Cost of a single hypersonic missile currently "in development" staggering! This RDE technology can make a significant contribution to lowering the cost? This remains to be seen.

Knight moves with checkmate in three? China and Russia your response?

coolbert.