USA (Washington Insider Magazine) – The United States has decided to boost its defense capabilities by equipping its fighter planes with a new hypersonic missile known as ‘Mako’ after recent intrusions by China and Russia in Alaska.This move, taken in the run-up to the presidential election, has sparked international debate, particularly in Russia and China. The Mako missile promises to improve America’s security in conflict zones, making its defenses practically impenetrable.
The Mako Hypersonic Missile
Lockheed Martin created the Mako Missile, which is a multi-mission weapon designed for various attack scenarios, including surface, sea, air, and air defense. This upgraded missile will be integrated into all American fighter jets, including the F-15, F-16, F-18, F-22, and F-35, as well as bombers and observation aircraft. Mako missile’s capabilities have been carefully evaluated across multiple platforms, assuring their readiness for deployment. Named after the swift Mako shark, the missile’s design and capabilities reflect its namesake’s speed and agility, making it a powerful addition to the US military’s arsenal.
Enhancing Military Capabilities
The US Navy, Navy SEAL commandos, and the US Air Force plan to integrate the Mako missile into all their military aircraft. The versatility of Mako missile allows for use in any mission and launch from any aircraft, providing a significant tactical edge. The missile’s capability to target a range of objectives, from sea and air to complex air defense systems, is crucial for modern warfare.
Compatible with fourth-, fifth, and sixth-generation stealth fighter aircraft, the Mako missile enhances the US military’s combat capabilities. Similar to the Tomahawk missile, the Mako hypersonic missile is anticipated to greatly strengthen the US Army, Air Force, and Navy.
According to FinancialExpress, the development of the Mako missile is a strategic response to Russia’s deployment of the ‘Kinjal’ (or Kinzhal and KH-47M2) hypersonic missile, which has been used in the conflict with Ukraine, launched from MiG-31 aircraft. The Kinjal missile’s performance in combat has highlighted the significant advantage of hypersonic weapons.
The Kinjal missile travels at speeds faster than Mach 10, making it difficult for conventional defensive systems to intercept. Its capacity to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads increases its strategic relevance. The missile’s deployment in Ukraine stresses the importance of the US developing similar hypersonic capabilities to maintain a balance of power.
