Marketplace Tech A veteran of Reagan’s “Star Wars” has doubts about Trump’s “Iron Dome”
Feb 5, 2025
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.
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Technological Feasibility
- The US possesses sensor and launch technologies for a missile defense shield.
- Integrating these technologies into a functional system remains uncertain.
Scale and Complexity
- The proposed "Iron Dome" system for the US is far more complex than Israel's.
- The US system needs to protect a vastly larger area and address diverse threats.
Cost Estimate
- Latiff estimates the "Iron Dome" project could cost $750 billion to $1 trillion.
- This estimate is based on previous cost projections for components of SDI.