In a move to bolster national security, US President Donald Trump has unveiled the Golden Dome, a revolutionary missile defence system designed to counter emerging threats and defend against aerial attacks. With an estimated cost of $175 billion over 20 years, the futuristic system will consist of next-generation technologies across land, sea, and space.
The United States has selected a design for its futuristic ‘Golden Dome‘ missile defence system, which aims to counter emerging threats such as ballistic and cruise missiles.
The system, expected to be operational by the end of President Donald Trump‘s time in office, is designed to deter and defend against aerial attacks.
Design and Capabilities
The Golden Dome will consist of next-generation technologies across land, sea, and space, including space-based sensors and interceptors.
According to President Trump, the system will be capable of intercepting missiles launched from anywhere in the world or from space.
The design is inspired by Israel‘s Iron Dome, but it will be much larger and designed to combat a wider range of threats.
The system will have multiple stages of deployment, including before launch and while the missile is still in the air.
All incoming missiles will be knocked out of the sky, with a success rate close to 100%.
The many aspects of the system will fall under one centralised command, according to US defence officials.
Initial Investment and Total Cost
The initial investment for the Golden Dome programme has been identified at $25 billion, with a total cost of $175 billion over time.
However, government estimates suggest that the space-based parts of the system alone could end up costing as much as $542 billion over 20 years.
Partnership and Participation
Canada has expressed interest in participating in the Golden Dome project, with then-Canadian defence minister Bill Blair acknowledging that it ‘makes sense‘ and is in the country’s national interest.
The system would provide Canada with an added layer of security and awareness of incoming threats.
Context and Background
The Golden Dome system is a response to the rapidly evolving missile threat landscape, with Russia and China actively designing systems to exploit gaps in US defences.
Existing systems have not kept pace with new technology, leaving the US vulnerable to emerging threats.
The system’s development comes as President Trump seeks to demonstrate his commitment to national security during his second term in office.
