Sen. Sullivan assesses latest Missile Defense Review initiative

Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) maintains the recent unveiling of the 2019 Missile Defense Review (MDR) is indicative of progress Congress has made with the Trump Administration.

Sullivan, a member of the Armed Services Committee, attended the Department of Defense spearheaded program, which officials said serves as the first update to American missile defense policy since 2010.

“Over the past 40 years, the issue of missile defense has been a largely partisan issue led by Republican Presidents,” Sullivan said. “Since entering the Senate, I have worked to reach across the aisle to drive much-needed improvements to our missile defense systems, including space-based sensors, a new missile field at Ft. Greely, and targeted investments in cutting-edge technology – all of which are reflected in this MDR.”

Sullivan said the plan paves the way for the next big leap in defense, countering emerging threats like the long-range cruise and hypersonic missiles in development by Russia and China.

“Alaska is the cornerstone of our nation’s missile defense,” Sullivan said. “We can do more and must do more to keep us safe. This review is another step in that process – and our Alaskan missile defenders at Ft. Greely and Clear Air Force Station, who stand watch 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, will help lead the way.”