I don't know why it surprises you that it costs a lot of money to research, develop, manufacture, store, distribute, and maintain low-volume cutting edge weapon

I don't know why it surprises you that it costs a lot of money to research, develop, manufacture, store, distribute, and maintain low-volume cutting edge weapons technology using expensive all-American components and labor. The fact that a babysitter is paid less than the cost of a missile seems pretty unrelated. And if you think you can build a sidewinder for under $30k, please go right ahead, the country needs you.