GAO Report Highlights Delays in Navy's Hypersonic Missile Program, Impacting Fleet Readiness
The U.S. Navy's hypersonic missile program, specifically the integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) missile system on Zumwalt-class destroyers, is facing significant delays and cost overruns, according to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) audit. The retrofit project, which involves replacing existing gun systems with missile launch tubes, is two years behind schedule. The program has encountered issues with the missile's production and testing, as well as challenges related to the ships' integrated power systems. These setbacks have delayed the full activation of the destroyers and raised concerns about the program's overall viability.