Pakistan’s Missile Program Could Threaten U.S. Homeland, Gabbard Warns

WASHINGTON — Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program could eventually pose a direct threat to the U.S. homeland, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard told lawmakers Thursday, as she outlined growing global concerns over advanced missile development.

Speaking before the House Intelligence Committee during the presentation of the 2026 Annual Threat Assessment, Gabbard said Pakistan’s efforts “potentially could include ICBMs with a range capable of striking the homeland.”

Her warning came as part of a broader assessment that global missile threats are expanding rapidly. According to the intelligence community, the number of missiles capable of threatening the United States is expected to grow significantly over the next decade.

“The IC assesses that threats to the homeland will expand collectively to more than 16,000 missiles by 2035 from the current assessed figure of more than 3,000 missiles,” Gabbard said.

She identified Pakistan among several countries developing advanced missile technologies, alongside Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. While North Korea already possesses intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the United States, Gabbard indicated Pakistan could move in a similar direction over time, though she did not provide a specific timeline.

Pakistan’s missile program has historically been driven by its strategic rivalry with India, with both nations maintaining nuclear-capable delivery systems. Islamabad has developed a range of short- and medium-range ballistic missiles and continues to pursue longer-range capabilities.

Gabbard also warned that China and Russia are working on systems designed to “penetrate or bypass U.S. missile defences,” a development that could complicate American defense planning.

Despite these challenges, she said the United States continues to rely on its nuclear deterrent, which “continues to ensure safety in the homeland against strategic threats.”

The annual threat assessment emphasized that missile proliferation is only one component of a broader and increasingly complex global risk environment. U.S. intelligence officials are also tracking rapid advancements in cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, and hypersonic weapons.

Gabbard noted that adversaries are investing heavily in next-generation delivery systems and emerging technologies, including AI tools that could enhance targeting and accelerate military decision-making.

The report underscores a growing concern within the intelligence community that multiple nations are simultaneously expanding their military capabilities, making deterrence more challenging and increasing the risk of future conflict.

U.S. officials have also raised alarms about the spread of missile technology beyond traditional regional deterrence, warning that more countries are seeking capabilities that could extend their reach to distant targets — including the United States. (Source: IANS)