USAF’s FY2027 budget request for Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) activities includes a complementary air-launched ballistic missile.
FY2027 RDT&E budget plan unveiled USAF’s plans for an air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM) to complement other hypersonic missiles.
It is expected that the ALBM project will be funded between FY2027 and FY2030.
ALBMs of considerable size can often reach hypersonic speeds at midcourse, as exemplified by Russia’s Kh-47M2 Kinzhal. However, these missiles slow down considerably towards the end of their descent, which necessitates high midcourse speed or extra push during descent to retain hypersonic speed.
Compared to hypersonic glide vehicles with tight design and manufacturing tolerances or hypersonic cruise missiles, ALBMs are generally cheaper due to a simpler build. Additionally, the larger payload capacity allows for a wider area of effect and potentially alternative warhead types.
ARRW Makes a Comeback with Increment 2
The RDT&E budget also includes ARRW Increment 2 as a new start for the shelved AGM-183A ARRW air-launched hypersonic glide weapon. While the tests were performed, the USAF seemingly cancelled the project, viewing it as a testbed.
According to the budget request, $345.769 million is allocated for the FY2027. The planned project budget totalling $1.757 billion is spread between FY2027 and FY2030.
AGM-183A ARRW with a range of 1500+ km and a speed of more than Mach 7 was tested from a B-52H bomber and planned for B-1B bombers and F-15E fighters.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
