Iron Dome

The Iron Dome program, as outlined in Line Item MD83 of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) budget, is a procurement initiative focused on providing funding to the Government of Israel for the acquisition of Iron Dome components. The primary goal of this program is to support Israel's missile defense capabilities by enabling the procurement of hardware and system elements necessary for the operation and sustainment of the Iron Dome system. This line item is managed under the Major Equipment sub-activity of the Defense-Wide Procurement appropriation, reflecting its strategic importance and international partnership context.

The objectives of the Iron Dome program are centered on the procurement of system components rather than research or development. The funding profile is coordinated with the Israeli Missile Defense Organization and follows the strategic plan established in the Memorandum of Understanding between Israel and the United States. The program is classified as Service Ready (ID Code A), indicating that the procured items are intended for immediate operational use rather than further development or testing.

For Fiscal Year 2024, the program received a significant supplemental appropriation, as authorized by Division A of Public Law 118-50, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriation Act, 2024. This funding supports the procurement of additional Iron Dome hardware, with quantities classified for security reasons. The budget justification notes that the unit quantity of one is used as a proxy in each fiscal year, reflecting the classified nature of the actual procurement quantities.

In subsequent years, the budget request for the Iron Dome program decreases, with funding allocated for recurring hardware costs, specifically for the procurement of Iron Dome components. The program does not include advance procurement or initial spares in the documented budget lines, and the funding is directed exclusively toward hardware acquisition.

The Missile Defense Agency oversees the management and execution of this line item, ensuring that the funding aligns with both U.S. strategic objectives and the operational requirements of the Israeli defense establishment. The Iron Dome procurement is part of a broader U.S.-Israel missile defense cooperation framework, which aims to enhance regional security and interoperability.

Justification for the Iron Dome program is rooted in its proven effectiveness in intercepting and neutralizing short-range rocket and artillery threats. Continued U.S. support for Iron Dome procurement reflects a commitment to Israel's security and the broader goal of maintaining stability in the region. The program's funding levels and procurement quantities are determined based on operational needs and strategic planning between the U.S. and Israeli governments.