US President Donald Trump officially announced the creation of Golden Dome, a new anti-missile system designed to protect US territory from hypersonic, ballistic, cruise missiles, and even launches from space.
"This is a historic moment," Trump said in the White House Rose Garden. "We are fulfilling a campaign promise and creating the most advanced missile defense system ever conceived by mankind." Trump promised to achieve "nearly 100 percent" interception of enemy missiles.
Very little is known about the Golden Dome system; during his announcement, Trump announced that its architecture had already been selected, which would combine the latest capabilities with existing ground, sea, and space-based air defense assets:
- Space sensors and interceptors: satellites with advanced radars and interceptors in low Earth orbit;
- Ground-based missile launchers: mobile complexes on US territory for rapid response;
- Fleet of anti-missile ships: modernized destroyers with advanced radars and anti-aircraft missiles.
"This 'shield' will protect every corner of our country," Trump stressed. In addition, he noted that Canada has also expressed interest in joining the program to protect its own territory. Therefore, negotiations are already underway to expand the Golden Dome to all of North America.
He also stated that the system would be operational within three years and called on the US Congress to pass "one big beautiful law", providing $25 billion in initial funding and bringing the total cost to approximately $175 billion.
Sponsoring senators Dan Sullivan (Alaska), Kevin Cramer (North Dakota) and Jim Banks (Indiana) pledged to support the necessary funding. "This is the completion of the work that Ronald Reagan started," said Senator Banks.
Trump stressed that all components of the Golden Dome will be manufactured in the United States, creating thousands of high-tech jobs. He gave special importance to Indiana businesses and Silicon Valley innovation. Major defense and aerospace companies are already preparing bids.
General Mike Gatlin of the US Space Force will lead the program and report directly to the president.
When asked about Elon Musk's (SpaceX) role in the Golden Dome, Trump avoided a direct answer: "We'll see," and emphasized "unique American technology." This response echoes a Politico article, in which the publication noted that Trump no longer mentions Elon Musk in his social media posts, and Republican insiders say he is "done."