CPS

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) is a strategic military capability focusing on global reach for non-nuclear, high-precision, rapid-response strikes against time-sensitive, high-value targets using advanced weapon systems, primarily hypersonic missiles, to deter aggression and maintain strategic stability by offering a conventional alternative to nuclear escalation.

BACKGROUND

Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS), formerly called Prompt Global Strike (PGS), is a United States military effort to develop a system that can deliver a precision-guided conventional weapon strike anywhere in the world within one hour, in a similar manner to a nuclear ICBM. Such a weapon would allow the United States to respond far more swiftly to rapidly emerging threats than is possible with conventional forces. A CPS system could also be useful during a nuclear conflict, potentially replacing the use of nuclear weapons against up to 30% of targets. The CPS program encompasses numerous established and emerging technologies, including conventional surface-launched missiles and air- and submarine-launched hypersonic missiles.

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

• Conventional Prompt Strike
• Prompt Global Strike (PGS)
• Hypersonic Strike
• Rapid Conventional Strike
• Non-nuclear Prompt Strike

USAGE NOTE

CPS is a critical initiative in modern defense strategy, aiming to provide a credible conventional deterrent and response capability for emerging global threats.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to CPS.

• Lockheed Martin

  A global security and aerospace company that develops and integrates advanced cyber-physical systems for military aircraft, naval vessels, missile defense, and other platforms, focusing on secure and resilient operations.

• Raytheon Technologies (RTX)

  A major aerospace and defense manufacturer that develops and integrates sophisticated sensing, weapon, and control systems, which are inherently cyber-physical, for various defense applications.

• Northrop Grumman

  A global aerospace and defense technology company involved in developing advanced cyber-physical systems for autonomous platforms, command and control, and secure communications across air, sea, land, and space domains.

• Boeing Defense, Space & Security

  Develops and manufactures military aircraft, satellites, and advanced autonomous systems, leveraging cyber-physical integration for navigation, control, and mission execution.

• BAE Systems

  A multinational defense, security, and aerospace company that develops advanced electronic systems, combat vehicles, and naval platforms, incorporating robust cyber-physical architectures for operational effectiveness and resilience.

• General Dynamics

  Provides a range of defense products and services, including land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments, and information technology, often integrating cyber-physical components for advanced battlefield capabilities.

• DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency)

  A US government agency responsible for funding and driving research into new technologies for the US military, including numerous projects focused on advanced cyber-physical systems for defense applications.

• Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)

  The primary scientific research and development center for the US Air Force, conducting extensive research into cyber-physical systems for aerospace applications, including autonomous flight, secure networks, and advanced control systems.

• MITRE Corporation

  A not-for-profit organization that operates federally funded research and development centers, providing scientific and technical support to government agencies, including extensive work on cyber-physical security, resilience, and integration for defense systems.