US Air Force Plans New Hypersonic Ship-Killer Version of AGM-183 ARRW Missile

The United States Air Force may soon receive a new anti-ship variant of the hypersonic AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW), according to a report published by TWZ. The Pentagon has requested more than $296 million for development of the upgraded "Increment 2” version of the missile. Budget documents for fiscal year 2027 state that the funding will support the "development, testing, and evaluation of an enhanced ARRW capability.” New ARRW Variant Designed to Target Warships The upgraded missile will reportedly feature a new seeker head and a data-link system, allowing it to track and engage moving naval targets at sea. Analysts believe these capabilities are aimed primarily at preparing for a potential future conflict with China in the Pacific region.