Dark Eagle: Supersonic 'ghost' challenges all modern radars

According to Military, the Dark Eagle hypersonic missile or Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) is a notable technological advance in the US military's arsenal.

The project officially launched in 2018 with Lockheed Martin as the prime contractor, as part of a strategy to enhance long-range strike capabilities to maintain an advantage over strategic rivals.

*The mobile launch system and glide body make the Dark Eagle both difficult to locate and difficult to intercept, enhancing its strategic deterrence value. Photo: Military.*

Dark Eagle was first deployed overseas in Australia as part of the Talisman Sabre exercise in July 2025. Despite a successful test report in December 2024, the US Department of Defense has not officially confirmed the system is ready for combat exploitation.

Structurally, Dark Eagle is a ground-launched, nuclear-armed system consisting of a two-stage solid-fuel propulsion system and a Common Hypersonic Glide Body (C-HGB). Upon launch, the booster stage propels the vehicle to hypersonic speeds and then separates, allowing the C-HGB to re-enter the atmosphere and glide toward its target. The C-HGB has an optimized shape for high-speed gliding, without using an engine, but is capable of adjusting its trajectory during flight, making its flight path unpredictable and difficult to intercept.

*The Dark Eagle marks a step forward in long-range strike weapons. Photo: Military.*

A highlight of the Dark Eagle is its mobile launcher system, with missiles launched from an improved Transporter Erector Launcher (TEL), typically based on an M870 trailer platform and towed by a heavy HEMTT mobile tactical truck. The mobile design allows for rapid rotation of the launcher force, reducing the risk of being located and neutralized.

Each TEL has two launchers, allowing for consecutive launches, shortening reaction time and increasing the possibility of surprise. Mobility also allows the system to be deployed to forward bases or friendly territory in strategic areas.

*Speeds exceeding Mach 5-7, the ability to change direction while gliding and the mobile launcher make the Dark Eagle difficult to detect. Photo: Military.*

In terms of performance, the Dark Eagle is designed for conventional strike missions with high precision and supersonic speeds, with a reported combat range ranging from 1,725 to 2,775 km depending on configuration. A two-stage thruster provides the initial acceleration; after separation, the glide body uses its aerodynamic shape and re-entry angle to maintain lift and trajectory control, reaching speeds typically in the Mach 5-Mach 7 range depending on the mission. This makes the Dark Eagle both capable of striking deep into enemy territory and suitable for sub-nuclear warfare.

Source: https://congthuong.vn/dark-eagle-bong-ma-sieu-thanh-thach-thuc-moi-radar-hien-dai-429683.html