The Hypersonic Landscape: Emerging Threats and New Opportunities

September 28, 2026 The Hypersonic Landscape: Emerging Threats and New Opportunities U.S. Representatives Mark Messmer (IN-08) and Vince Fong (CA-20) join the Department of War’s Drs. Joseph S. Jewell and James W. Weber and Heritage’s Robert Peters to discuss hypersonic capabilities developed by adversaries, what offensive systems the U.S. is building, and the DOW’s efforts to execute a comprehensive strategy to deliver offensive and defensive hypersonic capabilities at speed and scale. Click here to register virtually. In-person attendance by invitation only. Contact Heritage Events to be considered for an invitation. Monday, September 28, 2026 4:00 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. Online Featuring Description Join United States Representatives Mark Messmer (IN-08) and Vince Fong (CA-20) of the Hypersonics Caucus in conversation with Dr. Joesph S. Jewell, Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology, Dr. James W. Weber, Senior Official for the Scaled Hypersonics Critical Technology Area, and Heritage’s Robert Peters as they discuss the hypersonic capabilities developed by adversaries, what offensive systems the U.S. is building, and the Department of War’s efforts to execute a comprehensive strategy to deliver offensive and defensive hypersonic capabilities at speed and scale. The discussion will explore how recent investments in hypersonics in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and future funding efforts enable the Department to deliver systems to the warfighter by driving down costs, improving manufacturing technology, increasing production capacity, and qualifying new partners. As more countries, particularly our adversaries, build missiles that can travel at several times the speed of sound, the Department of War’s efforts to rapidly advance both offensive hypersonic strike capabilities and a layered defense to counter adversary systems are more important than ever. Sign up to receive invitations to all public events. COMMENTARY 2 min read COMMENTARY 3 min read COMMENTARY 4 min read