Discover how Lockheed Martin’s MAKO hypersonic missile will transform the military strategy of the F-22 and F-35 fighter jets.

The MAKO hypersonic missile, developed by Lockheed Martin, is designed to equip 5th generation fighter jets such as the F-22 and F-35. Capable of flying at speeds in excess of Mach 5 (more than 6,100 km/h), it offers a major strategic advantage by enabling it to strike sea, land and air targets at considerable distances, while remaining difficult to intercept. Its development, based on digital engineering techniques, enables flexible production and rapid adaptation to new threats. This missile represents a key advance in the race for hypersonic weapons, particularly in the face of the growing power of Chinese and Russian military capabilities.

Hypersonic technology

The development of hypersonic missiles represents a significant strategic advance for modern armed forces. A hypersonic missile, such as Lockheed Martin’s MAKO, is defined by its ability to reach speeds in excess of Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound (approximately 6,174 km/h). This speed, combined with increased precision, means that targets can be hit with unrivalled speed and effectiveness. Fighter aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Lightning II, already renowned for their stealth and agility, will see their offensive capabilities increased tenfold thanks to the integration of the MAKO.

Strategic advantages of the MAKO missile

The main advantage of the MAKO missile lies in its ability to strike targets at high speed, making detection and interception by enemy defence systems extremely difficult. A missile travelling at Mach 5+ considerably reduces the reaction time of enemy defences, which is crucial for penetrating advanced air defence systems. In addition, its ability to be launched from inside the weapons bays of the F-22 and F-35, without compromising their stealth, represents a major strategic asset. This enables air forces to maintain an element of surprise while maximising the range and effectiveness of attacks.

Digital engineering: flexibility and speed of production

The MAKO has been developed using digital engineering techniques, an approach that enables numerous missile configurations to be simulated and tested before they are physically produced. This method offers unprecedented flexibility, enabling the missile to be rapidly adapted to different missions by simply modifying its software parameters. For example, depending on tactical requirements, the MAKO can be fitted with different homing heads, guidance systems or explosive charges, optimising its effectiveness for a variety of targets ranging from warships to land defence systems.

Comparison with Chinese and Russian capabilities

The emergence of the MAKO hypersonic missile comes at a time when China’s and Russia’s military capabilities in hypersonic weaponry are being strengthened. China, for example, has already deployed the YJ-21 missile, which can be launched from ships and bombers, posing a serious threat to US naval and air forces. The development of the MAKO therefore represents a direct response to this rise in power, enabling the United States to maintain its technological and strategic superiority in this field.

Strategic consequences for US defence

The integration of the MAKO into the American arsenal could profoundly change defence and attack strategies. In addition to its use by fighter aircraft, the MAKO could potentially be adapted for launches from submarines or surface ships, further broadening its field of application. This versatility will enable the US armed forces to respond flexibly and effectively to emerging threats, while reducing the cost and time taken to develop new weapons.

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