Affordable air-breathing hypersonic cruise-missile programs move toward flight testing

The Air Force's HACM has reportedly undergone its first airborne release over Australia, a significant transition toward flight testing. Release alone does not confirm powered flight or performance, and the reduced test plan—from seven to five flights—creates execution risk ahead of a 2027 fielding decision. DARPA's September 30 RFI separately seeks an affordable, high-rate air- and ship-launched hypersonic cruise missile, reinforcing the shift toward scalable systems.