Why hypersonic weapons may revive very large cruisers

Will heavy missile cruisers return as hypersonic missile technology improves?

Possibly; Kirov-sized ships may return, but whether they need nuclear propulsion remains open.

Hypersonic weapons are physically large and demand supporting sensors, magazines, power, and command facilities. Accommodating those systems may push surface combatants back toward the dimensions associated with heavy missile cruisers. The answer separates size from propulsion: a Kirov-scale hull is plausible without automatically requiring a nuclear plant. Whether navies accept the cost of nuclear propulsion remains a distinct strategic and industrial choice.