New Missiles Cause a Frenzy

Lockheed Martin has unveiled the Mako missile, a cutting-edge air-launched hypersonic weapon designed specifically for the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, the two most advanced stealth fighters in the U.S. military. The missile, developed over seven years, represents a significant leap in hypersonic technology and could reshape the future of air combat.

A Hypersonic Breakthrough

The Mako missile is designed to achieve speeds greater than Mach 5, making it a formidable challenge for even the most advanced air defence systems. What sets it apart, however, is not just its speed but its ability to maneuver at such high velocities. Traditional hypersonic weapons typically follow a ballistic trajectory, making them somewhat predictable for defence systems to track. Mako, on the other hand, can change course mid-flight, making it much harder to intercept.

According to Lockheed Martin officials, the Mako missile is a versatile, multi-mission weapon capable of maritime strikes, counter-air defence, and a wide range of surface-attack operations. It has been specifically designed to be launched from the internal weapons bays of both the F-22 and F-35, a breakthrough in hypersonic missile technology that offers unprecedented flexibility in combat scenarios.

Date of Manufacture and Marketing

The exact date of manufacture and marketing for Lockheed Martin’s Mako missile is not publicly available, as it remains in the development and testing phase as of the latest updates. The Mako missile has been under development for approximately seven years, beginning around 2016-2017, under the Air Force's Stand-In Attack Weapon (SiAW) program.

Lockheed Martin has unveiled details of the Mako missile's capabilities and potential uses, indicating that it is still being tested and refined. There has been no official announcement regarding the date of entry into service or large-scale marketing for the missile as it depends on further testing and military adoption, likely within the next few years.

Enhancing Stealth Fighter Operations

One of the biggest advantages of the Mako missile is its ability to be launched from stealth aircraft without compromising their low radar signature. Typically, hypersonic missiles are too large to fit inside the weapons bays of fighter jets, meaning they would have to be carried externally, making the aircraft more visible to radar. With Mako’s compact design, the F-22 and F-35 can now carry and deploy hypersonic weapons while maintaining their stealth capabilities.

This development has far-reaching implications for U.S. military strategy. Stealth fighters equipped with Mako missiles could engage targets from longer distances while remaining undetected, giving the U.S. a decisive advantage in any air-to-air or air-to-ground combat scenario.

Versatility and Affordability

Lockheed Martin designed the Mako missile with modularity and affordability in mind. The missile can be adapted to various mission requirements, such as anti-ship, air-defense suppression, and even land-based strikes. This adaptability makes it a cost-effective solution for a wide range of combat situations.

Moreover, Mako is not just limited to 5th-generation fighters like the F-22 and F-35. The missile can also be fitted onto 4th-generation aircraft like the F-16, F-15, and even the Navy's F/A-18 Super Hornet, offering a significant boost in firepower for older platforms. Additionally, it can be deployed from naval ships, further extending its operational range and versatility.

The Future of Hypersonic Warfare

The development of the Mako missile marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of hypersonic weapons. Its combination of speed, maneuverability, and modularity makes it one of the most advanced missiles in the U.S. arsenal. As the Pentagon continues to prioritize hypersonic technologies, the Mako missile could become a cornerstone of U.S. military strategy, ensuring that the F-22 and F-35 remain at the forefront of air combat capabilities.

In the future, the Mako missile could be integrated into a broader network of hypersonic systems, further enhancing the United States' ability to project power across the globe. With its compact size, versatile mission set, and cutting-edge technology, Mako offers a glimpse into the future of air warfare.