How will US respond to China’s hypersonic threat? – Asia Times

Was the Pentagon covering up the Chinese launch in order to avoid difficulties with China?  

China s vehicle clearly did not meet all expectations and will require more tests and a longer development cycle. One indication is that it appears the Chinese hypersonic glider missed its target by more than 20 miles, suggesting that accuracy and vehicle control remain major challenges. 

And, because hypersonic glide vehicles can carry only small nuclear warheads just as the predecessor Russian FOBs carried warheads one third smaller than could be put on ICBMs accuracy is all-important to have a credible weapon.

An open and unanswered question is whether the US will decide to develop strategic defenses against hypersonic threats, whether launched from space, from sea, or by aircraft.  Milley s characterization of the Chinese hypersonic vehicle as very close to a Sputnik moment suggests that the Pentagon is deep in debate on how to respond to this new Chinese challenge. 

via asiatimes.com

Well, based on this we have a few years before the PRC can blow us up at will. And more than just a few years before we cannot effectively retaliate. Still, not outstanding work by our Pentagon and CIA and friends. Do better, children! We’re counting on you!