Keywords:
Hypersonic weapons; Hypersonic cruise missiles; Missile defence; Airpower; Strategic deterrence; Major powers
Hypersonic weapons are reshaping the high-altitude air battle, challenging traditional missile defence systems and creating both operational dilemmas and strategic opportunities. For middle powers, sustaining sovereign air defence against these fast, manoeuvrable threats is increasingly difficult, yet hypersonics also offer a limited but potent offensive counter-air capability. This paper examines how middle powers can navigate these challenges, assessing both the defensive limitations and the strategic value of hypersonics in mitigating vulnerabilities and reinforcing deterrence.
