Capital District Times

Washington, D.C. - In a recent hearing by the House Armed Services Strategic Forces Subcommittee, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik engaged in a discussion with Commander of NORTHCOM, General Guillot, regarding the potential need for a third homeland missile defense site at Fort Drum, New York. The Congresswoman raised important questions about the strategic implications of such a site in the face of advancing ballistic missile threats.

During the hearing, Congresswoman Stefanik queried General Guillot on the necessity of constructing a missile defense site at Fort Drum, to which General Guillot acknowledged the evolving threats posed by countries like North Korea and Iran. He emphasized the importance of continuously assessing the threat environment and the need for additional capabilities to protect the homeland.

In response to Congresswoman Stefanik's inquiries about the operational requirements for a third homeland missile defense site, General Guillot highlighted the importance of dispersal and kinematic responsiveness in intercepting threats. The discussion revolved around Fort Drum being identified as a potential location for the site, with General Guillot acknowledging its alignment with the Department of Defense and Congress's positions.

Shifting the focus to the Arctic region, Congresswoman Stefanik highlighted the critical role of the New York Air National Guard’s 109th Airlift Wing in providing logistical support. General Guillot affirmed the importance of the LC-130s operated by the Airlift Wing in enabling the U.S. to maintain a strategic presence in the Arctic.

The bipartisan support for the recapitalization of the LC-130s was also underscored during the hearing, with Congresswoman Stefanik emphasizing the urgency of ensuring the continuation of U.S. leadership in the Arctic region.

The dialogue between Congresswoman Stefanik and General Guillot sheds light on the complex strategic considerations surrounding missile defense and Arctic operations, highlighting the ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation's interests in these critical areas.