Trump requests additional 4bn missile defense programmes
On February 12, 2020, President Donald Trump requested an additional $4 billion in funding for the United States' missile defense programs in his fiscal year 2021 budget proposal. This request is part of a broader effort to modernize and expand the country's missile defense capabilities.
The requested funding would be used to support several key initiatives, including:
- Development of a new missile defense interceptor: The Pentagon is seeking to develop a new interceptor capable of destroying intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs) and cruise missiles. The additional funding would support the development of this new interceptor.
- Upgrades to existing missile defense systems: The requested funding would also be used to upgrade existing missile defense systems, such as the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system, which is designed to protect the United States from long-range ballistic missile threats.
- Development of a new radar system: The Pentagon is seeking to develop a new radar system that would provide improved detection and tracking capabilities for missile defense systems. The additional funding would support the development of this new radar system.
- Increased funding for missile defense research and development: The requested funding would also support increased research and development efforts in the area of missile defense, including the development of new technologies and systems.
The request for additional funding comes as the United States faces a growing threat from ballistic and cruise missiles, particularly from countries such as North Korea and Iran. The Trump administration has emphasized the importance of missile defense in protecting the country's national security and has sought to increase funding for these programs in recent years.
It's worth noting that the request for additional funding is subject to Congressional approval, and it's unclear at this point whether Congress will approve the full amount requested.