Hypersonic missiles are a hot topic in modern military technology. With claims of invincibility against current defense systems, understanding their capabilities is crucial. So, How Fast Do Missiles Travel, and what makes hypersonic missiles different?
Understanding Hypersonic Speed
Hypersonic speed is defined as Mach 5 or higher, which is five times the speed of sound. To put that in perspective, Mach 5 translates to roughly 1.7 kilometers (1.05 miles) per second, or 6,174 kilometers (3,836 miles) per hour.
While some existing ballistic missiles can achieve these speeds, hypersonic missiles distinguish themselves through their maneuverability within the Earth’s atmosphere. Unlike traditional ballistic missiles that follow a predictable arc, hypersonic missiles can alter their trajectory, making them significantly harder to track and intercept.
Iranian hypersonic missile Fattah on display in Tehran, highlighting its advanced design and capabilities
This maneuverability is a key advantage, but achieving and maintaining hypersonic speed presents significant engineering challenges. The intense friction with the upper atmosphere generates extremely high temperatures, and the superheated particles surrounding the missile can disrupt radio communications.
Currently, Russia and China have demonstrated hypersonic weapons capabilities, with Russia reportedly using them in combat. The United States is also actively developing hypersonic technology, though it currently lags behind its rivals.
Iran’s Fattah Hypersonic Missile
In June 2023, Iran unveiled its first hypersonic ballistic missile, the Fattah. The country claims it can overcome existing defense systems. This development has understandably raised concerns in the West and Israel.
Iran states the Fattah has a range of 1,400 kilometers (870 miles) and can reach speeds up to Mach 15, which translates to 5.1 kilometers (3.2 miles) per second.
The Fattah features a movable secondary nozzle and utilizes solid propellants. These features contribute to its high maneuverability both within and outside the atmosphere. Iranian military commanders claim this makes it impossible for any current missile defense system to intercept it.
IRGC commanders, including General Amir Ali Hajizadeh and Hossein Salami, at the unveiling of the Fattah hypersonic missile, demonstrating Iran's advancements in missile technology
Iranian authorities have hailed the Fattah as a “generational leap” in missile technology, arguing it provides Iran with a new level of deterrence. They have dismissed Western skepticism regarding its capabilities, stating the truth will be revealed when and if such weapons are ever used. They also suggest the US is skeptical because the technology undermines its arms sales in the region.
Implications for Israel and the West
While Iran didn’t directly threaten Israel during the Fattah’s unveiling, as it has with past missiles, the implications are clear.
The missile’s current range falls just short of the distance between Tehran and Tel Aviv. However, IRGC aerospace chief commander Amir Ali Hajizadeh has suggested the development of hypersonic missiles with a range of 2,000 kilometers (1,242 miles) is a possibility in the near future.
At the claimed speeds, the Fattah could theoretically reach Israeli targets in under seven minutes. This leaves minimal time for detection and interception, even for advanced systems like Israel’s Iron Dome.
Following the unveiling, the US imposed new sanctions on Tehran, including sanctions related to its ballistic missile program, signaling its concern over Iran’s advancements.
Context and Geopolitical Ramifications
Iran’s entry into the limited group of nations with hypersonic weaponry occurs during a period of significant political and military developments.
The 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers remains uncertain. However, a UN resolution underpinning it is scheduled to lift certain restrictions on ballistic missile development in October.
Western powers have consistently expressed concerns about the growing military cooperation between Tehran and Moscow. There have been accusations of Iran supplying Russia with attack drones for its conflict in Ukraine, which Iran denies. Reports have also surfaced regarding potential Russian purchases of Iranian missiles, though no agreement has been confirmed. Iran, however, has expressed interest in acquiring advanced Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets from Russia.
Simultaneously, a China-brokered reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia has led to increased diplomatic activity.
During the Fattah’s unveiling, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi sought to reassure neighboring countries about Tehran’s intentions, stating the missile represents a “point of sustainable peace and security” for the region.
Conclusion
The development and deployment of hypersonic missiles are reshaping the landscape of modern warfare. The question of how fast do missiles travel has become increasingly relevant. With its claimed speed and maneuverability, the Fattah missile highlights the ongoing advancements in this field and the growing strategic challenges they present. As more nations pursue this technology, the need for effective defense systems and international cooperation becomes ever more critical.
