Senator Mark Kelly Questions 'Golden Dome' Missile Defense and Nuclear Deterrence

Concerns Over 'Golden Dome' Missile Defense

• 💡 Senator Kelly expresses concern that the proposed 'Golden Dome' missile defense system could accelerate adversaries' nuclear weapon development.
• 🎯 While acknowledging the need for a system to protect the entire U.S. from nuclear-armed ballistic missiles, he questions its potential impact on the existing nuclear deterrence posture.
• ⚠️ Kelly notes that even if one or two missiles get through, it is too many, and inquires about the effectiveness of the current defensive system against a rogue actor.

Effectiveness of Current Missile Defense

• ❓ Kelly asks General Cotton about the effectiveness of the current interceptors in Alaska and California against a single ICBM launch from a rogue actor.
• 🛡️ General Cotton defers specifics on the ground-based interceptors to Northcom, stating his responsibility for 'Golden Dome' is to ensure the U.S. maintains a second-strike capability.
• 📊 He suggests a layered approach is the essence of 'Golden Dome' and key to its future deliverability.

Cost-Benefit and Strategic Impact

• 💰 Senator Kelly emphasizes the need for a cost-benefit analysis of the 'Golden Dome' system.
• ⚖️ He also stresses the importance of considering how such a system could alter the nuclear deterrence dynamics with China and Russia.

Submarine Force and Tactical Nuclear Missiles

• ⚓ Kelly raises concerns about integrating tactical nuclear missiles into the Virginia-class submarine force, citing the submarine force's effectiveness and potential disruption.
• 🛠️ He notes that significant modifications and security systems would be required for such integration.
• 🌏 In the Western Pacific, he believes this capability could be disruptive and needs careful consideration.

Military Response and Future Considerations

• 💬 General Cotton suggests that the Department of Navy should review past tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) related to tactical nuclear weapons.
• ✈️ He points to evolving capabilities, such as B-52s flying into Japan, and the potential for allies and partners to host dual-use nuclear-capable assets, indicating that integration challenges can be overcome.