Claims of permanent technological superiority are tested through the assertion that hypersonic weapons will always get through. The comparison is with earlier confidence that the bomber would always penetrate defences. Existing interceptors are discussed as theoretical counters only if radar data, coordination, and the engagement work as required. Future lasers could change the balance again, but claims that they would make ships invulnerable would repeat the same mistake. Weapons and tactics continue to adapt, leaving each technology within a larger contest.
Chapter · 48:34-50:26
Hypersonic weapons and changing countermeasures
Claims that hypersonic weapons will always penetrate repeat older predictions that one technology has permanently defeated its countermeasures.