What is Golden Dome: US President Donald Trump has announced the launch of a sweeping new missile defence initiative called the “Golden Dome” — a high-tech system that would mark the first time the United States deploys weapons in space. Drawing inspiration from Israel’s Iron Dome, Trump says the system will be capable of detecting and intercepting enemy missiles from launch to impact.
Golden Dome to be operational in 4 years
Speaking from the Oval Office on Tuesday, Trump declared that the Golden Dome would be “fully operational by the end of my term.” The ambitious system is designed to use space-based sensors and interceptors to provide global coverage and instantaneous missile response.
“This will be capable of intercepting missiles even if they are launched from the other side of the world,” Trump said, describing it as a “cutting-edge” defence solution.
Trump also revealed that Canada had expressed interest in joining the program. “As usual, we help Canada as best we can,” he remarked.
Golden Dome to be built entirely in United States
Trump pledged that the Golden Dome would be manufactured entirely within the United States, involving key facilities in Georgia, Alaska, Florida, and Indiana. General Michael Guetlein, vice chief of space operations, has been appointed to oversee the program.
General Chance Saltzman, head of the US Space Force, emphasized that these space weapons reflect “new and emerging requirements for missions that have never before been accomplished by military space organizations.”
Golden Dome manufacturing cost
While Trump has allocated an initial $25 billion to begin construction, he estimates the total cost of the Golden Dome at $175 billion. However, the Congressional Budget Office has cast doubt on that figure, projecting the cost of space-based components alone could exceed $542 billion over the next two decades.
Further complicating the rollout, newly confirmed Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told the Senate this week that no federal funding has yet been officially allocated for the project. “The program is still in the conceptual stage,” he cautioned.
Global threats from Russia and China
Trump’s announcement comes amid rising concern over hypersonic and space-based missile systems developed by Russia and China. Both nations have already deployed offensive space capabilities, such as satellites designed to disable rival systems.