The threat from enemy missile systems remains high, with both state and non-state actors developing weapon systems that travel faster and further, threatening deployed forces as well as populations at home. NATO members, particularly the US, and allies are continuing to bolster their ballistic missile defence technologies through new acquisitions, as well as adapting existing equipment, to meet these emerging threats. Missile technologies - including ballistic, cruise and hypersonic variants - pose a significant challenge to deployed forces, as well as to non-combatants in population centres far from the frontline. The threat from long-distance missiles and rockets has been a key part of strategic planning ever since the early V1, and later V2, rocket attacks carried out by the Nazi regime during World War 2. Missile technologies - including the use of nuclear warheads - have developed significantly since then and proliferated across the world. As a response to this threat - which emanates from rogue states and near-peer adversaries such as Russia and China - the US Department of Defense (DoD) released its long-awaited Missile Defense Review (MDR) in January, outlining the country's policies, strategies and capabilities on missile defence. "This 2019 MDR is based on recognition that the threat environment is markedly more dangerous than in years past and demands a concerted US effort to improve existing capabilities for both homeland and regional missile defense," the review stated.
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