China's space initiatives are regaining momentum following an accidental launch a year prior. The Pentagon's Golden Dome missile defense system is set to be a complex infrastructure requiring various rockets for operation in orbit. Gen. Michael Guetlein emphasized the critical technical challenge of building space-based interceptors, asserting that while the physics are proven, economic viability and scalability remain uncertain. Command-and-control systems are also essential for the success of the Golden Dome architecture, with urgency underscored by upcoming deadlines.
Gen. Michael Guetlein identified command-and-control and the development of space-based interceptors as two of the most pressing technical challenges for Golden Dome. He believes the command-and-control problem can be 'overcome in pretty short order.' The space-based interceptor piece of the architecture is a different story.
I think the real technical challenge will be building the space-based interceptor. That technology exists. I believe we have proven every element of the physics that we can make it work. What we have not proven is, first, can I do it economically, and then second, can I do it at scale?
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