Hypersonics EMD

The Hypersonics EMD program, focusing on the Long Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), aims to enhance the Army's capabilities against near-term and mid-term threats. This initiative supports the Army's Long Range Precision Fires modernization by developing and deploying the LRHW to counter Anti Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) capabilities, suppress adversary long-range fires, and engage high-value targets. The program involves collaboration with the Navy for Joint Flight Campaign tests, emphasizing missile body and payload performance. The LRHW system includes All Up Rounds plus Canister (AUR+C), which features the Common Hypersonic Glide Body (CHGB) and a Navy booster, along with command and control elements like the Battery Operations Center and Transporter Erector Launcher.

The program's objectives include ongoing research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) investments beyond initial prototypes to maintain technological superiority against evolving threats. Planned technology insertions aim to enhance system capabilities, address obsolescence issues, and upgrade platform, launcher, and weapon control systems. A comprehensive test plan is crucial for validating these developments and ensuring operational readiness for soldiers. The Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Middle Tier of Acquisition effort supports these goals by covering both RDT&E and procurement of prototype units.

For FY 2025, resources will support incremental development of Battery 2 AUR+C units and test assets for future evaluations. This includes delivering inert training canisters and tactical rounds while continuing integration efforts for technology insertions. The program also focuses on developing the CHGB with thermal protection systems to ensure readiness for production across various services. Ground Support Equipment development will continue to enhance training capabilities and support operational maintainability based on test outcomes.

Additionally, test and evaluation activities are planned to include Joint Flight Campaigns 6 requirements in FY 2025. These efforts encompass planning, execution, data collection infrastructure, soldier temporary duty costs, system transportation expenses, and developmental testing such as Cyber Vulnerability Penetration Assessments. System engineering and program management efforts will focus on logistics analysis for material release and sustainment while integrating technical insertions into prototype hardware contracts.