Admiral James Kilby, the acting Chief of Naval Operations, has expressed concerns over the U.S. Navy’s reliance on expensive missile interceptors to counter Houthi drone attacks in the Red Sea. Speaking at the Sea Air Space conference in National Harbor, Maryland, Kilby emphasized the need for more economical solutions to address the increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by the Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
The Navy has been utilizing missiles costing approximately $2 million each to neutralize Houthi drones, which are estimated to cost around $2,000. Kilby acknowledged this disparity, stating, “I had not been thoughtful enough to think about the UAV threat where I think a much lesser-powered weapon would have done what we needed it to do.”
In response to this cost imbalance, the Navy is exploring alternative defense mechanisms. Recent operations have demonstrated the effectiveness of using Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) laser-guided rockets, priced at approximately $35,000 each, to successfully intercept Houthi drones. This approach offers a more cost-effective solution compared to the previously employed multimillion-dollar missiles.
Kilby also highlighted the importance of enhancing the munitions industrial base to support the production of these more affordable defense systems. He remarked, “We have to get after our industrial base or munitions industrial base the same way we have to get after our shipbuilding industrial base.” This initiative aims to ensure the Navy is better equipped to handle prolonged engagements without depleting resources.
The ongoing conflict with the Houthi rebels has placed significant strain on U.S. naval operations. Continuous attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea have necessitated extended deployments of U.S. warships, impacting global naval readiness and prompting discussions about increasing the Pentagon’s budget to address these challenges.
Admiral Kilby’s push for more practical, budget-conscious weapons reflects growing concerns about readiness, national security, and fiscal responsibility. Conservative lawmakers and defense experts are increasingly calling for accountability and innovation to ensure that the Navy remains strong, efficient, and prepared for prolonged conflict.
