Peace Garden News

Missile defense remains a critical component of national security for the United States. In January, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order to develop an "Iron Dome" for America, modeled after Israel's system. This order aims to establish a comprehensive missile defense shield against various aerial threats.

Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), chair of the Senate Armed Services Airland Subcommittee, and Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) have introduced the Increasing Response Options and Deterrence of Missile Engagements (IRON DOME) Act. The proposed legislation seeks to enhance U.S. missile defense capabilities.

A key element of the bill is the modernization and digitization of the Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS) at North Dakota’s Cavalier Space Force Station. PARCS plays a vital role in tracking earth-orbiting objects and detecting missile threats.

Senator Cramer emphasized the importance of being equipped to face modern threats: “Now more than ever, we have to ensure the United States is properly equipped to address the pressing threats that are posed by our very capable adversaries.”

Senator Sullivan highlighted past efforts and future needs: “For decades, American missile defense strategy has focused on protecting our country from ballistic missile threats posed by rogue nations or accidental launches from a peer nation... But the proliferation of new hypersonic and cruise missile threats from our adversaries demands that we change this paradigm.”

The IRON DOME Act aligns with President Trump's Executive Order and recommendations from the 2022 Missile Defense Review. It proposes significant investments in new technologies and infrastructure enhancements, urging congressional support for improved national security.