The Voice News: President Donald Trump has revealed plans for a new missile defense initiative called the “Golden Dome,” designed to counter advanced aerial threats like ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missiles. He announced that the system would be operational by the end of his second term.
Just days after returning to office in January, Trump directed the Defense Department to develop the system. Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome, the Golden Dome will be much larger, integrating land, sea, and space-based technologies. It aims to intercept missiles launched from anywhere in the world—even from space.
An initial $25 billion has been allocated for the project, but full implementation could cost up to $542 billion over 20 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. The Defense Intelligence Agency warns that adversaries such as China and Russia are advancing rapidly, exploiting weaknesses in current U.S. defenses.
Experts remain skeptical. Marion Messmer from Chatham House noted that the U.S. faces a far more complex defense challenge than Israel due to its vast geography. Shashank Joshi, The Economist’s defense editor, explained the plan would rely on thousands of satellites to detect and destroy incoming missiles in orbit—something that may not be achievable within Trump’s term.
Canada has expressed interest in joining the program. Former Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair stated that participation would serve Canada’s national interests. Discussions between both countries are ongoing.
The Golden Dome will be overseen by Space Force General Michael Guetlein and managed under a centralized U.S. military command.
