3. Railguns – Fastest Projectile Weapons
Electromagnetic railguns, developed by defense agencies like the U.S. Navy, fire projectiles using electricity rather than gunpowder, launching them at speeds exceeding 5,600 mph (9,000 km/h) — more than seven times the speed of sound.
These projectiles have no explosives; the sheer kinetic energy at such speeds causes devastating damage upon impact. Railguns use magnetic fields to accelerate metal slugs along rails, achieving extreme velocity within milliseconds.
The technology promises longer range, faster impact, and lower operating costs than traditional artillery. However, it requires massive electrical power and advanced cooling systems to prevent overheating.
Though still in experimental stages, railguns represent the cutting edge of kinetic weaponry — an astonishing example of speed meeting precision.
