# Navy fires Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missile with cold-gas launch for the first time

Canonical page: https://technooptimist.io/stories/navy-fires-conventional-prompt-strike-hypersonic-missile-with-cold-gas-18c9a521
Date: 2 May 2025
About: [Lockheed Martin](https://technooptimist.io/companies/lockheed-martin.md) · [Conventional Prompt Strike](https://technooptimist.io/aviation/conventional-prompt-strike.md)
Original source: https://www.naval-technology.com/news/us-navy-test-cps-hypersonic-missile-at-cape-canaveral/

The US Navy's Strategic Systems Programs ran an end-to-end flight test of the Conventional Prompt Strike missile from Cape Canaveral, the first using the cold-gas launch method planned for ships and submarines. The gas ejects the missile from its tube before the first stage ignites, unlike hot-launch systems such as the Mk 41 cell, where the motor lights inside the ship.

## Key facts

- Two more end-to-end tests of the shared Navy-Army missile were completed in 2024.
- Planned platforms: Zumwalt-class destroyers and Virginia-class submarines.
- Vice Adm. Johnny Wolfe (SSP) said the method lets the missile reach a safe distance above the ship before ignition.

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