Why Missile Defense

Written By: Mackenzie Eaglen  |  Posted: Tuesday, August 17th, 2010

Some arguments are worth repeating. Take missile defense. The basic justification for developing this weapon system has not changed much since President Reagan proposed it in 1983. But the threats have changed. In fact, the threats we face are more varied and are evolving at a faster rate than at any other time in our history. Ten years ago, for example, few people knew what an improvised explosive device was. Today, they are the weapon of choice for insurgents in Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere around the world. Recent conflicts have also demonstrated the devastating effects of cyber and denial-of-service attacks; and more unsettled state actors are partnering with sub-groups to cause trouble. As the predictability of the kinds of threats we face has diminished, military planners have been forced to prepare to defend against virtually everything. Since no one would secure a home by locking all the windows but leaving the front door open, the U.S. shouldn't choose to remain vulnerable to a ballistic missile attack - particularly since these weapons can be armed with a chemical, biological or nuclear weapon.

It only takes 30 minutes for a ballistic missile to reach U.S. shores from anywhere in the world. We would barely have time to lament our lack of missile defenses before an attacking weapon was upon us
It only takes 30 minutes for a ballistic missile to reach U.S. shores from anywhere in the world. We would barely have time to lament our lack of missile defenses before an attacking weapon was upon us. Since the enemy always "gets a vote, " U.S. leaders need only pay attention to what others are saying and doing to validate the need for a comprehensive missile defense system to protect Americans.

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