"The numbers necessary to achieve this kind of muscular defense are staggering: 85,400 space-based interceptors, 14,510 new air-launched interceptors, 46,904 more surface-launched interceptors, hundreds of new sensors on land, in the air, at sea, and in space to detect incoming threats, and more than 20,000 additional military personnel. No one has placed missile interceptors in space before, and it will require thousands of them to meet even the most basic goals for Golden Dome."
"Another option Harrison presents in his paper would emphasize fast-tracking a limited number of space-based interceptors that could defend against a smaller attack of up to five ballistic missiles, plus new missile warning and tracking satellites, ground- and sea-based interceptors, and other augmentations of existing missile-defense forces. That would cost an estimated $471 billion over the next 20 years."
"At the other end of the spectrum, Harrison writes that the "most robust air and missile defense shield possible" will cost some $3.6 trillion through 2045, nearly double the life cycle cost of the F-35 fighter jet, the most expensive weapons program in history."
One option would cost $252 billion and include additional Patriot missile batteries, air-control squadrons, dozens of new aircraft, and next-generation systems to defend against drone and cruise missile attacks on major population centers, military bases, and other key areas. The most robust shield could cost $3.6 trillion through 2045, nearly double the F-35 life-cycle cost. Achieving the muscular defense would require 85,400 space-based interceptors, 14,510 air-launched interceptors, 46,904 surface-launched interceptors, hundreds of sensors across land, air, sea, and space, and more than 20,000 additional personnel. No nation has placed interceptors in space before, and thousands would be required even for basic Golden Dome goals. A smaller, fast-tracked option could defend against up to five ballistic missiles with limited space interceptors, new warning and tracking satellites, and augmented ground- and sea-based interceptors at an estimated $471 billion over 20 years. Supporters note that commercial satellite production and cheaper launches improve feasibility today.
Read at Ars Technica
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