Ritchie Voices Support for Fort Drum Missile Defense Site

State Senator Patty Ritchie is urging the United States Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to select Fort Drum as a new East Coast missile defense site, pointing to its unique, synergistic relationship with the North Country, support for a growing workforce, and New York State’s history of wanting to strengthen Fort Drum as reasons to select the installation.

Fort Drum is one of several locations currently being considered as an East Coast missile defense site.  Earlier this week, Senator Ritchie voiced her support for the potential project in a letter sent to the MDA.  

“In recent decades, Fort Drum and its 10th Mountain Division soldiers have developed a reputation of always being ready at a moment’s notice to answer calls to defend our Nation,” said Senator Ritchie in her letter.

“The addition of a CIS at Fort Drum is a natural fit, and would further strengthen the installation as it works to defend the people of the United States from various threats around the globe.”

A missile defense site at Fort Drum could result in the overall creation of nearly 1,500 jobs, as well as $220 million per-year in economic activity in our region. 

Senator Ritchie’s letter continues her efforts to support growth at Fort Drum, as well as to strengthen the installation and protect it from potential future cuts.  Recently, Senator Ritchie secured a $1 million“ Base Retention” grant to help protect and defend the military post, the largest in the Northeast and a key employer and economic engine for the region.

A copy of Senator Ritchie’s letter to the MDA can be read by clicking on the PDF at the top of this webpage.