Navy Tests Sea-Based Hypersonic Missile System

The U.S. Navy has conducted its first end-to-end flight test of a sea-based hypersonic missile using a cold-gas ejection system at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, advancing the deployment of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) weapon system. This launch method safely ejects the missile before first-stage ignition, improving operational safety. Developed jointly with the U.S. Army, the CPS system uses a common All Up Round (AUR) missile to accelerate deployment and reduce costs. The USS Zumwalt is currently being modified to replace its original gun systems with vertical launch tubes capable of holding up to 12 hypersonic missiles, making it the Navy's first vessel to receive the new system. Navy officials highlight the importance of hypersonic weapons for deterrence as Russia and China also advance similar technologies. Lockheed Martin is the prime contractor, and further tests are planned to support ongoing development and future deployments.