China Confirms Development of Hypersonic Air-to-Air Missile

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China has reportedly validated the existence of a hypersonic air-to-air missile following successful heat-resistance tests conducted at its Mars Mission tunnel facility. According to a peer-reviewed paper published in Equipment Environmental Engineering, the missile withstood temperatures exceeding 2,192 degrees Fahrenheit.

These tests simulated the extreme conditions expected during hypersonic flight, with performance benchmarks set by the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The Mars Mission tunnel is described as an arc-heated wind tunnel capable of creating severe thermal environments, essential for evaluating cutting-edge aerospace technologies.

Historically, China has focused on developing hypersonic missiles primarily aimed at ground and naval targets, with some missiles known to achieve speeds of Mach 5. However, this new development could pose a significant threat to enemy aircraft, specifically faster-moving fighters and stealth-capable systems.

Experts believe that if the missile could operate at speeds around Mach 9, it would be capable of overwhelming existing missile defense systems due to its limited engagement window. For U.S. aircraft, such as the B-21 bomber, this represents a pressing concern, as pilots may have mere seconds to execute evasive maneuvers when facing such rapid threats.

The research underscores the fast-paced advancements in military technology, suggesting a shift in China's military capabilities and potential impacts on global air superiority dynamics.

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