Washington D.C. – House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member, Congressman Adam Smith, released the following statement in support of the Administration’s decision to deploy 14 additional ground-based interceptors:

“In the face of developing threats to the United States, the Administration’s decision to deploy 14 additional ground-based interceptors is a wise and prudent step in implementing a sound strategy for missile defense. North Korea and Iran are seeking to improve their capabilities to launch long-range missiles and the Administration continues to respond appropriately and firmly by bolstering our capabilities and capacity to defend ourselves.

“In the near-term, these additional interceptors will bolster our capacity to deter and knock down potential attempts to attack the United States. In the long-term, I support the Administration’s efforts to make smart investments to improve the effectiveness and reliability of our missile defense capability.”

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