Hypersonics Prototyping - Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM)

The Hypersonics Prototyping Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) program is a major Air Force research and development initiative under Program Element 0604183F. Its primary goal is to design, develop, and prototype an air-launched, air-breathing hypersonic weapon system capable of being integrated onto fighter and bomber platforms. The program aims to provide the United States with the ability to hold fixed, high-value, and time-sensitive targets at risk in contested environments, leveraging standoff distances for increased survivability and operational flexibility.

HACM Development is the central line item within this program, focusing on the design, manufacturing, and testing of prototype vehicles. The objective is to mature hypersonic technologies, including subsystem integration, digital engineering, weapons open systems architecture, modeling and simulation, and high-performance computing. The program emphasizes the use of digital acquisition practices open, agile, and digital to foster modularity and adaptability throughout the weapon system's lifecycle. Investments are also being made to expand the industrial base and manufacturing readiness, ensuring the capability to transition from prototyping to full-rate production.

Integration, Qualification, and Test activities are dedicated to the assembly, integration, and qualification of subsystems and prototype systems. This includes planning and executing ground and flight tests to validate the performance and operational suitability of the All-Up Round prototypes. The FY 2026 budget increase supports additional subsystem qualification testing and flight testing, which are critical for gathering risk reduction data and informing future acquisition decisions.

Program Support encompasses contractor-provided engineering, professional, and administrative services, as well as mission planning, travel, and civilian pay expenses. The program also invests in digital engineering infrastructure, security upgrades, and other government costs necessary to support the classified nature of HACM activities. These support functions are essential for maintaining program momentum and ensuring compliance with security and operational requirements.

The Acquisition Strategy for HACM leverages the Southern Cross Integrated Flight Research Experiment, a bilateral U.S./Australian effort to mature air-breathing hypersonic cruise missile technology. The program also builds on the DARPA/Air Force Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept. Raytheon Technologies serves as the prime contractor, responsible for critical design review, development, integration, qualification, and flight testing of the prototypes. The strategy includes targeted investments in manufacturing capacity enhancements to prepare the industrial base for future production needs.

Functional Capability Advancement is another key component, focusing on advancing subsystem technology and enhancing overall system capability. This includes producing additional prototype units and conducting further testing to ensure the weapon system meets evolving warfighter requirements. The program also incorporates lessons learned from laboratory research and ongoing threat analysis to refine inventory and upgrade planning.