Lawmakers are exploring the potential for arming the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer fleet -- and possibly new frigates -- with offensive hypersonic missiles, a move that could dramatically extend the striking range of the Navy's surface combatant force to hold at risk a larger set of inland targets by modifying current vertical launch systems to accommodate larger-diameter rockets. The House Armed Services strategic forces subcommittee is proposing legislation for the fiscal year 2024 defense policy bill that would require the Navy...
