New multi-layered shield to protect U.S. from hypersonic and space-based threats
WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump has unveiled the design of a sweeping new missile defense initiative called the “Golden Dome”, modeled loosely after Israel’s Iron Dome but vastly expanded in scope to counter ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, cruise missiles, and even space-based threats.
Expected to become operational by the end of Trump’s current term, the system will feature space-based sensors and interceptors, offering what he called near “100% success” in intercepting hostile projectiles. The project is backed by an initial $25 billion budget, with long-term estimates reaching $175 billion—or potentially $500 billion over 20 years due to space deployment costs.
The U.S. Space Force will lead the initiative under General Michael Guetlein, ensuring real-time coordination across land, sea, and orbital domains.
Unlike the Iron Dome, the Golden Dome aims to neutralize high-speed and orbital weapons, such as fractional orbital bombardment systems, which experts believe are being developed by countries like Russia and China. Defense officials have repeatedly warned that current U.S. systems are outdated for modern threats.
Canada has also expressed interest in joining the effort, citing shared security concerns in the Arctic region.
Trump hailed the project as “unlike anything ever built,” describing it as a cornerstone of future U.S. defense.
