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3d ago

US Air Force Seeks FY2026 Funding to Revive ARRW Hypersonic Missile

Gen. David Allvin says FY26 funding will advance the boost-glide weapon alongside scramjet cruise capabilities as part of the Air Force’s strategy to counter near-peer threats.

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Allvin hints at new funding for Air Force’s ARRW hypersonic missile in fiscal 2026.
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Overview

  • Gen. David Allvin has confirmed that the AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon will appear in the FY2026 budget request.
  • The boost-glide missile program completed its rapid prototyping phase in August 2024 after earlier mixed test outcomes led to a funding pause.
  • ARRW uses a rocket booster to reach near-space altitudes before gliding back at speeds exceeding Mach 5, making interception by existing defenses difficult.
  • A 2024 Pentagon report highlighted test campaign setbacks caused by limited infrastructure and inadequate flight-data collection tools.
  • The Air Force plans to develop ARRW in tandem with the scramjet-powered Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile to broaden its high-speed strike options.