A veteran of Reagan’s “Star Wars” has doubts about Trump’s “Iron Dome”
Feb 5, 2025
auto_awesome
A retired Air Force general discusses the ambitious vision behind America's proposed missile defense shield, likening it to Reagan's cold war-era 'Star Wars' program. The conversation delves into the technological feasibility and funding challenges of such a grand initiative. It highlights the stark differences between Israel's Iron Dome and the U.S. defense needs, alongside reflections on the historical hurdles faced in defense technology projects. Skepticism about the Iron Dome's practical effectiveness amid financial constraints is also examined.
The proposed Iron Dome for America faces significant challenges in technology integration and feasibility, raising doubts about its effectiveness against diverse missile threats.
Financial estimates for developing this missile defense shield range from $750 billion to $1 trillion, highlighting the enormity of the project compared to the Department of Defense budget.
Deep dives
The Feasibility of a Next Generation Missile Defense Shield
The concept of a next generation missile defense shield, often referred to as the Iron Dome for America, faces significant feasibility challenges. While the U.S. possesses necessary sensor and launch technologies, the integration of these components into a cohesive system remains uncertain. Comparisons with Israel's Iron Dome highlight differences in scale and complexity, as the U.S. would require a system capable of defending vast areas against a variety of fast-moving threats. Major General Robert Latiff emphasizes that the expansive nature of America's defense needs complicates the execution of such a project effectively.
Cost and Timeline Expectations
Estimates for developing the proposed missile defense shield suggest a staggering budget that could reach between $750 billion to $1 trillion. This figure surpasses the entire budget for the Department of Defense for a given year, indicating the immense financial commitment required. The timeline for development is also a concern, with advocates claiming a completion period of five to seven years, though historical acquisition projects suggest a more realistic estimate of around ten years. Latiff indicates past defense initiatives have often exceeded their budgets and timelines, signaling that optimistic projections are rarely met.
Among President Donald Trump’s many executive orders is one calling for a “next-generation missile defense shield.” The White House calls this the Iron Dome for America. The order says it should defend against all sorts of missile attacks and include “space-based interceptors” that could potentially act as both sensors and weapons. It reminded retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Robert Latiff of a Ronald Reagan-era program he worked on: the Strategic Defense Initiative, or SDI, known popularly, and especially to its critics, as “Star Wars.” Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Latiff about whether the U.S. has the technology, money and time to make this grand project work.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode