Tulsi Gabbard: Pakistan’s ICBM Development Represents a Growing Threat to the U.S.
Synopsis
Tulsi Gabbard warns that Pakistan's advancements in long-range ballistic missiles could threaten the U.S. homeland. As missile threats evolve globally, the U.S. faces increasing challenges to its security. Learn more about the implications of these developments.
Key Takeaways
Pakistan's missile program poses a potential threat to the U.S. homeland.
Missile threats are projected to exceed 16,000 by 2035.
Countries like China and Russia are developing systems that may bypass U.S. defenses.
Adversaries are investing in hypersonic weapons and AI technologies.
Deterrence is becoming increasingly complex due to simultaneous military expansions.
Washington, March 19 (NationPress) The advancement of Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program poses a potential threat to the U.S. homeland, cautioned Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, during her address on Thursday.
Gabbard stated that Pakistan’s missile initiatives “could potentially encompass ICBMs capable of reaching the U.S. mainland.” She delivered these insights while sharing the 2026 Annual Threat Assessment with the House Intelligence Committee.
Her comments were part of a broader alert regarding the increasing global missile threats.
“The Intelligence Community anticipates that the number of threats to the homeland will grow collectively to over 16,000 missiles by 2035, up from the current estimate of more than 3,000,” she informed the lawmakers.
She noted that Pakistan is among the nations “conducting research and development on a variety of advanced or traditional missile delivery systems armed with nuclear and conventional payloads that could place our homeland within their range.”
Other nations mentioned include Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. Notably, North Korea already possesses intercontinental ballistic missiles that can reach the United States, suggesting that Pakistan might follow a similar trajectory over time.
While she did not specify a timeline for when Pakistan might achieve such capabilities, Gabbard emphasized that the trend reflects a growing unease about global missile advancements.
She reiterated that the United States continues to depend on its nuclear deterrent, which “ensures safety within the homeland against strategic threats.” However, she also warned that China and Russia are developing systems aimed at circumventing U.S. missile defenses.
This situation could complicate U.S. defense strategies. The report indicated that missile threats are part of a broader and evolving risk landscape, which also encompasses cyberattacks, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies.
Gabbard highlighted that adversaries are investing in hypersonic weapons and new delivery methods, stating that artificial intelligence could enhance targeting and expedite decision-making. The intelligence community indicated that the global threat environment is becoming increasingly complex.
With multiple countries simultaneously expanding their military capabilities, deterrence becomes more challenging. Pakistan’s missile program has been significantly influenced by its rivalry with India, with both nations maintaining nuclear-capable delivery systems.
Pakistan has developed short- and medium-range ballistic missiles and continues to advance its longer-range systems. U.S. officials have increasingly expressed concerns about the proliferation of missile technology, as more nations seek capabilities that extend beyond mere regional deterrence.
The latest assessment underscores the apprehension that such programs could ultimately pose direct threats to the U.S. homeland.
Point of View
The intelligence community is increasingly alert to the potential threats posed by Pakistan's missile advancements. The evolving landscape of missile capabilities globally necessitates a proactive approach to ensure national security and strategic deterrence.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Tulsi Gabbard say about Pakistan's missile program?
Tulsi Gabbard indicated that Pakistan's long-range ballistic missile program could develop into a threat to the U.S. homeland, potentially including ICBMs capable of striking U.S. territory.
How many missile threats are projected for the future?
The Intelligence Community estimates that threats to the U.S. homeland will exceed 16,000 missiles by 2035, up from over 3,000 currently.
Which countries are involved in missile development?
Countries mentioned include Pakistan, Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran, all of which are advancing their missile capabilities.
What is the significance of hypersonic weapons?
Hypersonic weapons represent a new frontier in missile technology, potentially improving targeting and decision-making for adversaries.
How does Pakistan's missile program affect U.S. security?
Pakistan's missile advancements, particularly in the context of its rivalry with India, pose increasing challenges to U.S. deterrence and security strategies.
