Missile Defense

While the United States relies on deterrence to protect against large and technically sophisticated Russian and Chinese intercontinental ballistic missile threats to the U.S. homeland, U.S. active missile defense can and must outpace existing and potential rogue state offensive missile capabilities. To do so, the United States will pursue advanced missile defense concepts and technologies for homeland defense

The U.S. Missile Defense System (MDS) bolsters deterrence for the nation and provides credible security assurance to our allies and partners. Missile defense “protects against missile attacks to limit damage, supports U.S. military operations if deterrence fails, and hedges against future uncertainties and risks.” While we rely on deterrence to protect against an attack by large numbers of technically sophisticated intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM) on the homeland, U.S. active missile defenses can and must outpace the existing and potential missile capabilities of rogue states and non-state actors. To do so, the Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of Homeland Defense (DHS) pursue advanced missile defense concepts and technologies for homeland defense. By “staying ahead” of the technological capability of the missile threats from rogue actors, the U.S. seeks to dissuade adversaries from investing in advanced and ballistic missile technology.6 Admittedly, as our adversaries field increasingly dangerous, diverse, and expansive offensive threats, we are compelled to provide an equally advanced response. Considering the speed with which adversaries could develop capabilities to threaten homeland security, successive administrations have sought to develop a responsive, adaptable, and lethal missile defense system with Congressional support.

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