But it's not like boost-phase intercept is a magic bullet (ha!). Well, really, it generally takes a magic bullet. Launch sites are typically far away. Unless yo

But it's not like boost-phase intercept is a magic bullet (ha!). Well, really, it generally takes a magic bullet. Launch sites are typically far away. Unless you have a interceptor several times faster (or interceptor site much closer to the launcher than the target), then it's very hard to actually reach the missile while it's in boost phase. That airborne laser that's been in development for seemingly forever was pretty much determined to be the best way to intercept. You'll notice that it combines BOTH elements. That 747 is flying within LOS of the missile path while in boost phase, and it's also using the fastest projectile possible. You'll also note that the Patriot's role is medium tactical air defense as well as theater anti-ballistic missile defense. The second role was basically tacked on, and then later massively expanded (once it became obvious that there aren't many air forces in the world that can actually fight the US). In the end, I'm sure every general and admiral actually out to improve their warfighting abilities would want both systems. It's all about defense in depth. It's the reason why warships have three different sets of anti-air missiles, while we still have stingers when we have patriot missiles, and why US fighter aircraft still carrying short range missiles and guns.