Air Force Space Command is leading the effort to solicit ideas for a “no warning—national security demands an immediate response” system to satisfy the Pentagon’s prompt global strike requirement. According to the request for information, DOD expects to “deploy a first-generation, terrestrial-based, white-world, non-directed energy, kinetic capability by 2020.” First thoughts are due March 14.
The U.S. military is maintaining a beefed-up presence in the Middle East, including fighters and air defense assets, following the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities June 22 and subsequent retaliation by the Iranians against Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.