From Grok:
Russia has developed several hypersonic missile systems, some of which could theoretically reach Washington DC from launch points within or near Russia:
- Kh-47M2 Kinzhal: This is an air-launched ballistic missile that can be deployed from aircraft like the MiG-31K or Tu-22M3. It’s reported to have a speed of Mach 10 and a range of about 2,000 kilometers. Given its range, it could potentially reach Washington DC if launched from a suitable location close enough to the East Coast of the United States.
- Oreshnik (RS-26 Rubezh): This missile has been described as having an operational range that could reach into intermediate ranges, potentially up to 5,000 kilometers. If this range is accurate, it would place Washington DC within its strike capability if launched from parts of Russia or from mobile launchers positioned closer to the US.
- Avangard: While primarily known as part of Russia’s strategic nuclear arsenal, the Avangard is a hypersonic glide vehicle that can maneuver at high speeds. It’s part of the RS-28 Sarmat ICBM system, which has intercontinental range capabilities. Although not specifically designed for such a short range as from Russia to Washington DC, it could theoretically be launched from a closer position if needed, due to its high speed and maneuverability.
Please note that while these missiles have the range to potentially reach Washington DC, their use would depend on various strategic, political, and operational factors. Also, the exact capabilities of some of these systems, especially in terms of operational range and accuracy, might still be subjects of some speculation or classified information.
What about an SLBM at the 12-mile limit off of D.C.?
Flight time: 90 seconds or so.
Not even enough time for DEI Austin to bend over & kiss his arse goodbye.
All ICBM’s are hypersonic.
But most come from well-known silos, are under continuous surveillance to detect INITAL Launch Signature.
In a sane world the pucker factor would be HIGH after Putin demonstrated his new weapon.
But Clown World isn’t sane. They’d rather burn it all down instead of losing power.
I still maintain that PART of this continuous poke-poke-poke of Russia is to trigger WW3 as a cover for the coming Jab-pocalypse.
But regardless of the above, consider that WW1 was enabled, in large part, by multiple countries all posturing, laying down red lines, strong statements, etc., that so bound them up with threats and commitments and obligations that when someone finally did cross a line, they had no choice but to act to remain credible on the world stage.
I fear we are in that situation now. Except the bombs are much, much bigger.
Does the Topol-M count as a hypersonic weapon? Russia has been moving 3 of them around on TEL platforms. Each has a single 1 MT warhead. 3 of them seem to be a message to certain western nations.
No teasing allowed.