US President Donald Trump announced a design for the Golden Dome, BBC News reports. The Golden Dome is a new missile defense system that aims to counter advanced aerial threats. These threats include ballistic missiles and cruise missiles. Trump expects the system to work by 2029. He revealed plans days after starting his second term in January. The system will use cutting-edge technology on land, sea, and in space. It draws inspiration from Israel’s Iron Dome, a system that intercepts rockets since 2011.
The Golden Dome will be much larger. It targets a wider range of dangers. These include hypersonic weapons, which move faster than sound, and fractional orbital bombardment systems, warheads delivered from space. A Defense Intelligence Agency report warns that missile threats are growing. Countries like China and Russia design weapons to bypass US defenses. Trump claims the system can stop missiles launched from anywhere, even space.
Cost and challenges
The project starts with $25 billion in funding. Trump estimates a total cost of $175 billion. However, the Congressional Budget Office predicts up to $542 billion over 20 years for space-based parts alone. Experts doubt the system can protect the entire US. The country’s large size makes it harder than Israel’s smaller defense challenge. Shashank Joshi, a defense expert, says thousands of satellites will track and intercept missiles. He believes completion during Trump’s term is unlikely. The high cost could strain the defense budget.
Canada wants to join the project. Former Canadian minister Bill Blair said it aligns with national interests. Space Force General Michael Guetlein will lead the effort. The system will unite various technologies under one command. Despite enthusiasm, officials note current defenses lag behind advanced enemy weapons. The Golden Dome aims to close this gap but faces significant hurdles.
Attendees at the press conference named L3Harris Technologies, Lockheed Martin, and RTX Corp as potential contractors for the massive project, Reuters reports.