On May 21, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the formal launch of the $175-billion Golden Dome missile defense system, aimed at defending the U.S. from potential missile threats from China and Russia. The space-based defense program will involve a large satellite network and cutting-edge tech, but faces funding and political hurdles.

BulletsIn

• Trump unveiled $175B Golden Dome missile shield to counter China, Russia threats
• Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein named as program lead
• Network to include hundreds of satellites for missile detection and interception
• Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome but with space-based offensive and defensive satellites
• Canada expressed interest in joining; ties to NORAD renewal talks
• Trump aims for system to be operational by January 2029
• CBO estimates long-term costs could reach $831B over 20 years
• Industry players: SpaceX, Palantir, Anduril, Lockheed, L3Harris, RTX
• Critics raise concerns over funding, transparency, and tech feasibility
• GOP proposes $25B initial fund, but bill linked to contentious reconciliation process