U.S. COULD USE UAVS TO INTERCEPT MISSILES
WASHINGTON -- The United States could use unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) as part of its missile defense system. The Pentagon could receive funding for such a program in FY2019.
The UAV would target ballistic missiles, including those of North Korea, during their boost phase of flight. The intense heat of the boosters makes detecting the missiles much easier. Missiles become harder to detect and intercept during later phases of flight.
The Pentagon's Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has been researching boost-phase intercept concepts. One option uses a laser-based system. A UAV-based boost-phase system could be developed within 18 months.
The U.S. Congress needs to appropriate funds for a UAV-based system.
Source: Wall Street Journal
Associated URL:
https://www.wsj.com/articles/drones-can-protect-us-from-kims-missiles-1521397415
Author: Arthur Herman and Stephen C. Meyer
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