Air Force Requests Fivefold Increase in Funding for Base Defense Technology

Key Takeaways

The Air Force seeks $836 million for air base defense systems in 2026, an increase aimed at countering drone and missile threats.
Funding will enhance technology like the Small Unmanned Aircraft Defense System (SUADS) and missile defense variants.
Experts highlight the urgent need for stronger air base defenses amid growing global threats, particularly from countries like China and Russia.

Funding for Air Base Defense Systems

The Air Force is requesting $836 million for fiscal year 2026 to enhance air base defense systems, aiming to protect installations from increasing drone and missile threats. This funding initiative is part of a significant financial boost approved earlier this summer through a Republican-led tax and spending bill dubbed the “One Big, Beautiful Bill.”

This considerable increase comes in response to escalating threats observed in recent global conflicts, such as Ukraine’s drone strikes on Russian air bases that highlighted vulnerabilities within military installations. With concerns growing over China’s missile capabilities, the Air Force recognizes an urgent need for improved defensive measures for its personnel and assets.

The Army generally oversees air base defense; however, the Air Force is taking proactive steps to ensure comprehensive protection. The budget proposal includes procurement of two key technologies: the Small Unmanned Aircraft Defense System (SUADS) and the missile defense variant known as ABADS-MD. SUADS utilizes electronic warfare and command-and-control systems to neutralize small drones, while ABADS-MD is designed to detect and counter incoming missiles.

To facilitate this strategy, the Air Force awarded contracts to Parsons Corp. for developing the ABADS systems. A portion of the funds will be allocated toward these systems, with $518 million earmarked for the counter-drone technology and $318 million for missile defense.

Next year marks a crucial milestone, as the Air Force intends to fund the “nonkinetic effector” aspect of the missile defense system, exploring advanced electronic warfare methods and laser technologies to engage incoming threats. The expansion of SUADS from six units to eight and an increase in missile defense systems from 11 to 18 are also planned.

Experts like Masao Dahlgren from the Center for Strategic and International Studies indicate that the budget increase is well-timed, as air bases are vital to the Air Force’s operational capabilities. However, concerns remain regarding the effectiveness of nonkinetic responses to incoming attacks.

ABADS-MD supports the Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment strategy, enabling rapid deployment of units in remote locations that may lack adequate defense. The system incorporates advanced detection methods that limit detection risks.

Moreover, the budget will also enhance a sensor network to monitor drone activity, particularly over sensitive regions like Washington, D.C., aimed at protecting presidential aircraft from unauthorized drone incursions.

While specific long-term operational details for ABADS remain undisclosed, the Air Force indicates it will procure a significant number of SUADS systems, with software development set to run through 2030. The enhanced funding reflects an urgent commitment to bolster defenses against evolving aerial threats.

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