Sun Jun 22 04:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:
**U.S. Relies on Tomahawk Cruise Missile Amid Hypersonic Arms Race**
**Washington D.C.** – As nations worldwide aggressively develop supersonic and hypersonic missiles, the United States continues to heavily rely on a decades-old subsonic cruise missile: the Tomahawk. This weapon, first used in the Iraq War, has quietly and consistently proven its effectiveness in various conflict zones.
For over three decades, the Tomahawk has been a trusted asset for the U.S. military, deployed extensively in Iraq, Syria, Libya, the Persian Gulf, Yemen, and other volatile regions. Reports indicate a high success rate, with the missile consistently hitting its intended targets.
Designed to be launched from naval ships and submarines against land-based targets, the Tomahawk’s development began during the Cold War in the 1970s. General Dynamics developed it, and by 1983, it was integrated into the U.S. arsenal.
The Tomahawk, excluding its booster, measures 5.6 meters long and can strike targets up to 1,600 kilometers away. It travels at approximately 880 kilometers per hour, maintaining a low altitude of 30-35 meters, making it difficult for enemy radar to detect until it is very close to its target. This stealth capability contributes to its reliability in combat. The missile can carry a 450-kilogram conventional warhead. Its importance is underscored by the fact that around 140 U.S. warships and submarines are equipped to launch it.
A prime example of its effectiveness is “Operation Desert Storm” in Iraq, where the Tomahawk was the first weapon deployed against Baghdad. During the 42-day campaign, 282 out of 297 Tomahawk missiles hit their intended targets, confusing enemy defenses with varying altitudes and trajectories. Each Tomahawk missile is estimated to cost around $2 million.
The Tomahawk incorporates advanced smart navigation systems, including GPS and an Inertial Navigation System (INS). Its Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM) system compares pre-loaded maps with real-time terrain imagery for precise targeting. Advanced data links allow for in-flight course correction or mission cancellation if needed.
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