President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on Monday to initiate the development of a “next generation” missile defense shield for the United States. The order, as per a fact sheet obtained, aims to establish an advanced defense system similar to Israel's Iron Dome.
The order specifically targets protection against ballistic, hypersonic, advanced cruise missiles, and other potential aerial threats that pose a significant risk to national security. The fact sheet describes these threats as potentially catastrophic.
The proposed missile defense shield will involve the deployment of advanced space-based systems designed to detect and intercept incoming missile launches aimed at the United States. However, the order does not provide details on the projected cost or a timeline for the development of this defense system.
During his campaign, President Trump pledged to create a defense shield that would be impenetrable, drawing inspiration from Israel's successful Iron Dome system. Despite Israel's robust air defense capabilities, the country has faced challenges in intercepting all missile launches and drones that breach its airspace, underscoring the complexities involved in establishing a comprehensive defense shield.
The US has previously supported Israel's Iron Dome system with substantial funding, and the US Army operates its own missile defense systems. The executive order signals a strategic shift towards enhancing the nation's defense capabilities against evolving threats in the modern era.
