What are key differences between supersonic and hypersonic missiles
Introduction
The main difference between supersonic and hypersonic missiles lies in their speed and the physical effects they encounter during flight.
Speed
Supersonic missiles travel faster than the speed of sound (Mach 1) but not faster than Mach 5. Most supersonic missiles operate at speeds between Mach 2 and Mach 3, which is approximately 1,500-2,300 mph (2,400-3,700 km/h).
Hypersonic missiles, on the other hand, travel at speeds of Mach 5 and higher - at least five times faster than the speed of sound. This translates to speeds of around 3,836 mph (6,174 km/h) or more.
Physical Effects
The key distinction between supersonic and hypersonic missiles is not just their speed, but the physical phenomena they encounter
Heat generation
Hypersonic missiles generate extreme heat due to air friction, which poses significant engineering challenges.
Air chemistry
At hypersonic speeds, the air molecules around the missile begin to break down, forming a plasma sheath that can interfere with communications and sensors.
Maneuverability
Hypersonic missiles, particularly hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs), can maneuver within the atmosphere, making them more unpredictable and harder to intercept.
Types
Supersonic missiles are typically traditional cruise missiles or shorter-range ballistic missiles.
Hypersonic missiles come in two main types
Hypersonic cruise missiles (HCMs)
These maintain a constant hypersonic speed throughout their flight using advanced propulsion systems like scramjets.
Hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs)
These are launched on ballistic missiles and then glide to their targets at hypersonic speeds.
Technological Challenges
Hypersonic missiles present far greater technological challenges than supersonic missiles.
These include
Developing materials that can withstand extreme temperatures
Creating sophisticated guidance systems that can function in a plasma environment
Designing engines capable of sustained hypersonic flight (for cruise missiles)
Strategic Implications
Hypersonic missiles are considered more strategically significant due to their potential to evade current missile defense systems and their shorter time to target, which compresses decision-making windows for military leaders.
Conclusion
Supersonic and hypersonic missiles exceed the speed of sound, hypersonic missiles operate in a different regime of speed and physics, presenting unique challenges and strategic implications that set them apart from their supersonic counterparts.
