Treating hypersonic-defense claims skeptically

Are Western defenses ineffective against hypersonic missiles while Russian and Chinese systems achieve acceptable intercept rates?

There is no basis here for that one-sided conclusion. Geometry, long-running Western defense work, and propaganda from every side must all be considered.

The claim that Western intercept rates are abysmal while Russian and Chinese systems are satisfactory deserves skepticism. Western air-defense development has long focused on very fast threats, and a crossing engagement differs from a weapon approaching the defended force. Accepting one side's public account while rejecting the other's leaves the comparison untested. Misrepresentation of military capability can come from any side.