Donald Trump has launched plans for a sweeping missile defense system called the Golden Dome, promising to finish it before the end of his term.
The goal is to protect the US from advanced weapons like hypersonic missiles, space-based warheads, and electromagnetic pulse attacks that could cripple modern life.
The idea comes as defense experts warn that America’s current systems are not strong enough to handle powerful weapons from rivals like China and Russia. Existing missile shields were mainly built to stop threats from countries like North Korea. But newer weapons could fly faster, come from space, or avoid traditional detection altogether. Even one high-altitude nuclear blast could knock out the nation’s power grid and electronics.
The Trump administration says the Golden Dome will be a next-generation system that can track and destroy incoming weapons from land, sea, or even space. It will be spread across several US states, with Florida, Indiana, and Alaska mentioned as key sites. Officials say it will rely on a mix of early detection, new interceptors, and layered defenses that can strike threats at different points in their flight paths.
While no official designs have been made public, the system is expected to involve space-based sensors and interceptors capable of dealing with fast and unpredictable missiles. The concept goes beyond current US technology and would require major advances, including the ability to stop a launch before it happens or shoot down a missile shortly after takeoff.
Experts agree that a stronger defense is needed, but many doubt whether the Golden Dome can be built as described. A recent report from the Congressional Budget Office warned that hundreds or even thousands of satellites would be needed to make it work. This would cost billions, if not trillions, of dollars and could take many years. They also note that a large-scale missile defense system might trigger an arms race with other countries.
Despite the doubts, Trump is pushing forward, comparing the idea to Israel’s Iron Dome, which has successfully protected cities from short-range rocket attacks. However, the scale and complexity of the Golden Dome would be far greater.
The Pentagon has assigned Space Force General Michael Guetlein to oversee the new program. He has said that the Golden Dome will build on what the US already has but expand it to cover a wider range of threats. Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the project at the White House, saying it’s a necessary step to keep America safe from future warfare.
As the project begins, some experts remain cautious. They point out that while missile defense is important, no system will ever be perfect, especially against massive attacks. Others warn that building such a large shield may encourage enemies to build even more powerful weapons to overcome it.
Still, Trump appears committed to the Golden Dome, framing it as a bold move to protect American lives and stay ahead in global defense. Whether the plan becomes reality remains to be seen, but the proposal has already stirred debate in military and political circles around the world.