In a shocking revelation that could reshape naval warfare, experts warn that China’s hypersonic missile capabilities could obliterate U.S. aircraft carriers within minutes. The USS Gerald R. Ford, the Navy’s most advanced carrier, is now under scrutiny as analysts declare it “dead on arrival” against the backdrop of China’s escalating military might.

Deployed for the first time in October 2022, the USS Gerald R. Ford boasts cutting-edge technology and a staggering $13 billion price tag. However, as tensions rise over Taiwan, predictions indicate that if conflict erupts, China could decimate all ten U.S. carriers in the initial 20 minutes using hypersonic missiles that travel at Mach 10. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hexith’s recent comments underscore the urgency: “China is building an army specifically designed to destroy the U.S.”

The Pentagon is scrambling to develop laser weapon systems capable of countering this hypersonic threat. The Ford is equipped to support emerging technologies, and experts believe that a laser weapon could provide a critical edge. Unlike traditional missiles, hypersonic projectiles are highly maneuverable and unpredictable, making interception a daunting challenge. However, lasers could potentially fire at the speed of light, offering a near-limitless supply of ammunition as long as the ship has power.

Despite promising tests of laser systems over the years, the U.S. Navy is still years away from deploying a reliable high-powered laser capable of intercepting hypersonic missiles. The urgency of this situation has led to the creation of the High Energy Laser Counter Anti-Ship Cruise Missile Program (HELCAP), aimed at overcoming technical hurdles. As the clock ticks down to a potential conflict over Taiwan, the stakes have never been higher. The U.S. Navy must act swiftly to ensure its carriers do not become sitting ducks in an increasingly perilous global landscape.