In a major step toward modernizing its artillery capabilities, the US Army is working on adding hypersonic firepower to its HIMARS platforms by integrating the new Blackbeard Ground Launch (GL) missile. Developed by Castelion Corporations, the Blackbeard GL system is engineered to deliver precision-guided strikes at hypersonic speeds, potentially reaching Mach 5.
The Army’s strategy involves adapting the Blackbeard missile to work within its current HIMARS infrastructure—leveraging the proven mobility, flexibility, and rapid deployment of the launcher system. This hybrid approach will allow forces to deploy hypersonic weapons using an already battle-tested vehicle platform.
The missile itself is expected to feature autonomous target-seeking technology, enabling it to engage fast-moving or reinforced threats with high accuracy, regardless of terrain or environmental factors. This development marks a leap in ground-based strike technology, aimed at giving the US military a tactical edge in high-threat conflict zones.
