The development of hypersonic weapons has shaken the military world. Among American leadership, murmurs of a Sputnik moment grow louder. Near-peer adversaries threaten to outpace the United States. Yet, in the face of unprecedented adversity, our armed forces have risen to the challenge. In 2023, American hypersonic weapons were fielded for the first time in history - and we spoke to none other than Colonel Ian Humphrey, Project Manager for Long Range Hypersonic Weapon Integration in the Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office. In this exclusive interview, we uncover lessons learned, hard realities, and unparalleled opportunities in America's drive to modernize our strike capabilities for 21st-century conflict.