Trump Unveils Ambitious ‘Golden Dome’ Missile Defence System with Space-Based Weapons

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday unveiled the most detailed plan to date for the proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system, which would mark the first time the United States deploys weapons in space, as per Al Jazeera.

Speaking from the White House alongside Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Trump said he had “officially selected an architecture” for the high-tech system, which he said would defend against hypersonic, ballistic, and advanced cruise missiles.

“I promised the American people I would build a cutting-edge missile defense shield to protect our homeland,” Trump said. “Once fully constructed, the Golden Dome will intercept missiles launched from anywhere on Earth—or even from space. We will have the best system ever built.”

The Golden Dome will include a network of space-based sensors and interceptors, and is expected to become a cornerstone of the Trump administration’s national security strategy.

Although the Congressional Budget Office recently estimated the cost of the space-based elements alone could reach $542 billion over 20 years, Trump projected a much lower figure. He said the system would cost around $175 billion and be completed within three years—before the end of his current term.

The president added that the system would be developed using existing military technologies and infrastructure, although funding has yet to be fully secured. He is seeking an initial $25 billion allocation through a tax cut bill currently under negotiation in Congress.

Sources cited by The Associated Press reported that Trump was presented with three tiers of the plan—”medium,” “high,” and “extra high”—based on the number of satellites and interceptors involved. He reportedly chose the “high” version, with an upfront cost between $30 billion and $100 billion.

General Michael Guetlein, the current vice chief of space operations at the U.S. Space Force, will oversee the programme’s implementation.

Secretary Hegseth hailed the initiative as a “game changer” and a “generational investment” in America’s security. Trump cited Israel’s Iron Dome system and Ronald Reagan’s 1980s Strategic Defense Initiative as key inspirations.

“Forty years later, we are finally completing what President Reagan started,” Trump said. “We will end the missile threat to the American homeland once and for all.”

Trump revealed that Canada has expressed interest in joining the project, adding, “We’ll be talking to them.”

However, the plan has already sparked controversy, particularly regarding the potential involvement of tech mogul Elon Musk. Musk’s SpaceX is seen as a top contender for the contract to build components for the Golden Dome, but his role as a special adviser to Trump and a major campaign donor has raised concerns.

A group of 42 Democratic lawmakers has called for an investigation into Musk’s involvement, warning of possible conflicts of interest. “If Mr. Musk were to exercise improper influence over the Golden Dome contract, it would be another example of a disturbing pattern,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter calling for a probe.

Trump declined to name any specific contractors during the announcement but said the system would benefit multiple U.S. states, including Alaska, Indiana, Florida, and Georgia.

While supporters view the Golden Dome as a breakthrough in national defense, critics warn it could reignite a global arms race and burden taxpayers with exorbitant costs.

Still, Trump remains undeterred.

“We are doing what no country has ever done,” he said. “America will lead in space, in defense, and in securing peace through unmatched strength.”