Aegis Ashore Phase III

The Aegis Ashore Phase III program is a key component of the Missile Defense Agency's (MDA) efforts to enhance regional missile defense capabilities for U.S. deployed forces, allies, and partners in Europe. This line item reflects the procurement and deployment of the Aegis Ashore system in Poland, as part of the European Phased Adaptive Approach (EPAA) announced in 2009. The primary goal of this program is to provide a land-based ballistic missile defense capability that complements existing sea-based Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) assets. This approach expands coverage against short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missile threats.

The objectives of Aegis Ashore Phase III specifically include the construction, outfitting, and operationalization of the Aegis Ashore site in Poland. This phase introduces the upgraded Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IIA interceptor, which offers improved engagement capabilities against a broader spectrum of ballistic missile threats. The system consists of a deckhouse structure and weapon system, incorporating an Army/Navy Surface Radar Surveillance and Control Radar, a Vertical Launch System, advanced computing infrastructure, and integrated Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) systems. These elements are designed to mirror the capabilities of the latest Arleigh Burke-class Aegis destroyers. This facilitates streamlined training and logistical support by the U.S. Navy.

The Missile Defense Agency is responsible for overseeing the development, procurement, and testing of the Aegis Ashore system. Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) activities are conducted under Program Element 0604880C, which supports capability improvements and operational testing at the Aegis Ashore Missile Defense Test Complex in Hawaii. These RDT&E efforts ensure that technological advancements and lessons learned are incorporated into operational sites, such as the one in Poland, to maintain effectiveness against evolving missile threats.

For Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, no new funding is requested for this line item, as the construction and transition of the Aegis Ashore Poland site to the U.S. Navy were completed in FY 2024. The resource summary indicates that the major procurement activities, including equipment and deckhouse installation, were funded in prior years. Minimal additional costs were recorded in FY 2024, and no further procurement quantities or costs are projected for FY 2026 and beyond under this line item.

The Aegis Ashore Poland, Equipment and Deckhouse subcomponent represents the physical infrastructure and core systems required for the site's operational readiness. This includes recurring and flyaway costs associated with the procurement and installation of the deckhouse, radar, launch systems, and supporting electronics. The transition of these assets to the Navy ensures that the site is maintained and operated in accordance with service requirements, providing persistent missile defense coverage for the region.

Justification for the program centers on the need to address regional security challenges and fulfill U.S. commitments to NATO allies under the EPAA. By deploying a land-based missile defense system in Poland, the U.S. enhances deterrence and defense against potential ballistic missile attacks, while also demonstrating technological leadership and interoperability with allied forces. The flexibility of the Aegis Ashore system allows for potential redeployment or adaptation to other regions, should threat environments change.