Steven Holt: “the Missile Defense Agency has before it really an impossible task. Our current missile system programs have not worked…”

“the Missile Defense Agency has before it really an impossible task. Our current missile system programs have not worked, and wishing will not help it to overcome the physics. The tests have failed repeatedly. It has been confused by decoys, faced numerous testing troubles, and despite spending over $100 billion over the years, we have failed to develop a working system. Mr. Tierney referred to the seven separate reports that are critical of various aspects of this program. Our amendment is not just pulled out of a hat, it focuses this program down to allow the Missile Defense Agency to work in those areas where it can make progress. The programs have gotten so far out in front of the basic facts that it is time to focus this down. You know, our colleagues say they do not want to shortchange our national defense, but I can assure you that cutting wasteful programs does not shortchange our national defense. Seven separate reports by independent agencies here say that aspects of this program are wasteful. They simply are not working. It is time to focus it down. You know, one of the craziest ideas I have ever heard is that we should deploy this missile defense system as a way to test it. I cannot think of any aspect of your life, any aspect of military preparedness, any aspect of business or industry where you work that way. It should be thoroughly tested before it is deployed. And to deploy something like this is worse than a waste.…”