The Pentagon, concerned about its low stockpiles ahead of a potential future conflict with China, plans to significantly increase its missile arsenal, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports, citing sources.
According to the publication, the desire to “accelerate production of critical weapons in greatest demand” was expressed during a series of meetings between Pentagon officials and senior representatives of several American missile manufacturers. According to the sources, 12 types of weapons the US would like to have in the event of a potential conflict with China are being considered. These include Patriot air defense missiles, long-range land-attack missiles, SM-6 surface-to-air missiles, Precision Strike missiles, and AGM-158 Joint Strike Missiles (JASSMs).
According to Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell, the US government is considering “extraordinary ways to strengthen American military power and accelerate the production of combat equipment.” However, according to the publication, several individuals, both in the administration and in the defense industry, are concerned about the unrealistic goals set by the government. Assembling individual missiles alone could take two years.
Questions also arise regarding funding. A bill approved by the US administration in July provides $25 billion in additional funding for weapons production over the next five years. However, analysts argue that achieving the Pentagon’s ambitious goals will cost tens of billions more.