Dark Eagle: Hypersonic Missile Defense System Unveiled

Why in the news?

The United States has introduced the Dark Eagle Anti-Missile System, a hypersonic defense technology with unmatched speed and range, designed to counter ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missiles, ensuring national and allied security against evolving global threats.

Dark Eagle: Hypersonic Missile Defense System Unveiled

Key Features and Capabilities:

  • The Dark Eagle Anti-Missile System, developed by the United States, is a cutting-edge long-range hypersonic defense technology.
  • It is designed to intercept and neutralize multiple threats, including ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missiles.
  • With an operational range of over 2,775 kilometers (1,724 miles), it can strike targets deep in adversary territories.
  • Its two-stage ballistic missile design incorporates the Common Hypersonic Glide Body (C-HGB) warhead, capable of reaching speeds of Mach 17 (approximately 3,000 to 3,700 meters per second).

Technological Edge:

  • Operating at altitudes below 50 kilometers, the system achieves unparalleled speed and precision.
  • It is engineered to counter advanced air defense systems like Russia’s S-300V4, S-400, and S-500.
  • Its hypersonic glide capability enhances survivability in contested environments and ensures rapid response to threats.

Hypersonic Missiles: Key Features and Advantages:

  • Speed and Maneuverability: Travel at speeds of Mach 5 (6,125 km/h) to Mach 20 (24,140 km/h) and can change flight paths, unlike ballistic missiles.
  • Types:
  • Hypersonic Glide Vehicles (HGVs): Launched like ballistic missiles, then glide towards the target.
  • Hypersonic Cruise Missiles: Use scramjet engines, sustain high speeds, and are highly maneuverable.
  • Advantages:
  • Responsive Long-Range Strike: Quick, precise strikes on defended or critical targets.
  • Enhanced Penetration: Can destroy targets using kinetic energy, including underground facilities.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times