Missile AGM-HACM

The Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) is an Australian-American air-launched cruise missile project. It is the successor to the Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept (HAWC) and the SCIFiRE hypersonic programs. Technology developed for the HAWC demonstrator was used to design the HACM, which is a United States Air Force Program of Record. Following the decision to end procurement of the AGM-183 ARRW in March 2023, the HACM became the sole hypersonic weapon program of the U.S. Air Force. The program experienced delays when its design review slipped from early 2024 to September 2024, compressing the testing schedule to five test flights prior to the projected rapid fielding decision in fiscal year 2027.

The HACM is a scramjet-powered projectile. It is smaller than the AGM-183 ARRW and flies along different trajectories compared to boost-glide systems. The system is designed to allow fighter aircraft to hold high-value, time-sensitive targets at risk, while maintaining bombers for other targets.

The missile is intended for deployment by the United States and Australia, with the United States planning for operational capacity in fiscal year 2027. Testing of the system will utilize Australian facilities. Upon entering service, the projectile will be the first hypersonic missile operated by Australia.