US Weighs First Hypersonic Missile Deployment in Middle East

WASHINGTON -UNS : The United States is considering deploying a long-range hypersonic missile system to the Middle East for the first time, aiming to strengthen its ability to target distant and heavily defended sites, according to a media report.
The proposal, reportedly originating from United States Central Command, suggests that Iranian forces have moved key missile launchers beyond the reach of current systems. Existing platforms, such as the Precision Strike Missile, are limited in range, prompting interest in more advanced strike capabilities.
Officials believe a hypersonic system could allow rapid and precise engagement of time-sensitive targets. If approved, the deployment would involve the US Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon, known as “Dark Eagle,” which has an estimated range of around 1,700 miles.
The system, still in advanced development and not yet fully operational, is designed to deliver high-speed conventional strikes. Its potential deployment comes amid a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran, in place since early April.
Donald Trump has previously warned that military action remains an option if diplomatic efforts fail. However, negotiations between Washington and Tehran appear to have stalled, with both sides accusing each other of delaying progress.
Analysts note that the high cost of hypersonic weapons—estimated at around $15 million per missile—along with limited production, could affect deployment timelines. Meanwhile, countries like Russia and China have already developed similar capabilities, increasing pressure on the US to accelerate its programme.
No official statement has yet been issued by US authorities regarding the reported proposal.