U.S. Department of Defense Faces Supply Chain Challenge in Scaling Up Hypersonic Weapons Production

American PoliticsHot SpotsTrade & Border Issues
Written By Jennifer Joslyn

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) aims to expand the production of hypersonic weapons, but a lack of a suitable supply chain is hindering progress. The National Defense Industrial Association’s Emerging Technologies Institute report highlights DOD's inconsistent commitment to fielding hypersonic systems at scale. The insufficient manufacturing base, limited supply of critical materials, testing infrastructure, and workforce capacity are major challenges.

Hypersonic weapons, traveling over five times the speed of sound, evade traditional defenses and pose a significant threat. The report emphasizes the need for investment in high-temperature materials production, workforce development, and sourcing agreements with allies to reduce reliance on China.

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Jennifer Joslyn
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