Iron Dome: An Examination of the Important Strategic Partnership on Missile Defense Between Israel and the United States

President Obama’s signing of the United States-Israel Enhanced Security Cooperation Act on July 27 and the subsequent visit by U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta to Israeli missile defense sites on August 1 have both brought renewed focus on the partnership between the two nations regarding missile defense initiatives. This particular legislation is designed to augment the capabilities of the Israeli military forces, particularly through supplying additional funding for missile defense efforts. While the Iron Dome missile defense network continues to demonstrate successes in preventing rocket strikes inside Israel, the debates about funding for missile defense continue within the U.S. Congress. For example, the House voted earlier this year in favor of funding levels through Fiscal Year 2015 for general missile defense cooperation with Israel, as well as the Iron Dome effort specifically, which are a full $848 million more than the President’s suggested levels. The Senate has yet to vote on its versions of funding legislation, although the bills which have emerged from committees also seek at least $400 million more in funding that the President’s proposals. While these funding battles will certainly continue, the question remains whether the U.S. will fully embrace the strategic lessons and opportunities offered by Iron Dome and the Israeli program.

This event will focus on the ongoing role played by the United States in Israeli missile defense as well as the actions the U.S. should take to apply all lessons to domestic missile defense programs. Please join us as our panelists explore these important topics.