Short Wave Trump Wants A Missile Defense System Like Israel's
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Jun 17, 2025 
Geoff Brumfiel, NPR science correspondent, dives into the intricacies of missile defense systems. He discusses Israel's Iron Dome and its recent military actions against Iran, highlighting the urgent need for such defenses. The conversation shifts to President Trump's ambitious proposal for a 'Golden Dome for America,' exploring its feasibility amidst technological and financial challenges. Brumfiel highlights the implications of missile defense in an evolving geopolitical landscape, raising concerns about potential arms races with nations like Iran, Russia, and China.
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Israel's Multi-layered Missile Defense
- Israel's Iron Dome intercepts missiles heading for populated areas using networked radars and interceptor missiles.
- Israel also uses Arrow and David Sling systems to counter larger, longer-range ballistic missile threats.
U.S. Faces Hypersonic Missile Threats
- U.S. missile threats come from superpowers like Russia and China with intercontinental ballistic missiles reaching hypersonic speeds.
- These speeds make interception extremely difficult, especially given some may carry nuclear warheads.
Critical Launch Phase Interception
- Effective missile defense requires intercepting missiles during their short, 3 to 5 minute launch phase.
- The rapid timing and long distance from launch sites make early interception a daunting challenge.