The U.S. will launch the AGM-183A ARRW hypersonic missile for the third time this year, despite multimillion-dollar funding cuts

The United States is preparing to make a third launch of the hypersonic AGM-183A ARRW missile after two successful launches.

What we know

The AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon is a highly problematic development. In fiscal year 2022 (beginning Oct. 1, 2021), authorities had to cut $161 million in funding for the program after a string of setbacks.

But behind the setbacks came success. The U.S. Air Force conducted two successful AGM-183A ARRW launches this year. The first launch was in May and the second in July, two months apart. The last test drew a line under the test phase of the launch vehicle and brought it closer to the start of full testing of the entire system.

U.S. Air Force officials are now pleased with how the AGM-183A ARRW tests are going and say the next tests will be a big step in the development of the program. The missile is being developed by Lockheed Martin. The manufacturer stressed that the next tests will be more difficult than the series of booster tests.

The Air Force wants the AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon combat version by the end of 2023. Lockheed Martin says it's a daunting task, but the company will do its best to complete the project on time.

Source: Defense News

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