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Missile defense

man and sheep

In southern Romania, villagers are uneasy about a NATO missile defense system in its backyard

Ukraine

In efforts to justify his war in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin will often raise the specter of NATO missile defense systems in eastern Europe. The Pentagon claims that the facilities can only fire missile interceptors. Landing at the center of this debate is the Romanian town of Deveselu, home to one of just two missile defense systems in Europe.

President Donald Trump stands and speaks at a podium

Trump reveals missile defense strategy with eye on North Korea

President Donald Trump speaks is shown sitting with an American flag hanging behind him while wearing a dark suit and red tie.

Trump’s new missile defense strategy eyes space-based sensors

Conflict
Two leaders sit at a desk signing a document.

How Trump’s exit from a Cold War-era treaty could trigger a 3-way arms race

Space-based laser

The Pentagon’s drive to field a workable missile defense shield has produced a $10 billion flop

Technology
US Navy officers with the laser weapon on the USS Ponce.

Is that a US Navy ship or a Star Destroyer?

Technology

For the first time, the US Navy has deployed a laser weapon on the high seas, ready to fry any drones or speedboats that might dare to attack. It’s still a prototype for now, but it could be a first step in a new, lethal — and relatively cheap — era of naval combat.

Overseas reaction to Obama missile defense plan

Poland and Czech Republic disappointed about new direction of US missile defense plan; Russia feels they’re finally being understood.

The World

Sequestration Could Impact Israel’s ‘Iron Dome’ Missile Defense

Global Politics

Israel gets billions of dollars from Washington every year. If the sequestration cuts go through in full, it could put a serious squeeze on Israel’s defense budget. Anchor Marco Werman discusses the issues with Haviv Rettig Gur of the Times of Israel.

India Tests Missile That Puts China in Range

Environment

India successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile Thursday that puts major Chinese cities within range.

Israel’s Iron Dome

Arts, Culture & Media

Israel successfully tested a system to intercept short-distance rockets earlier this year and has now started to deploy it. The World’s Matthew Bell reports from Jerusalem.