Pentagon Prepares Funding Plan for Trump’s Ambitious 'Golden Dome' Defense System
The proposed missile defense system aims to protect the U.S. from advanced threats, with initial deployment expected to focus on major cities and sensitive sites by 2026.
- The 'Golden Dome' is inspired by Israel's Iron Dome but is designed to defend the U.S. against intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and hypersonic weapons.
- Defense leaders emphasize the need for a layered and space-based system to address advanced missile threats that evade traditional radar and tracking systems.
- The Pentagon is finalizing a funding proposal, expected to be presented to the White House by the end of March 2025, with future funding reflected in the 2026-2030 defense budget.
- Initial deployment could begin as early as 2026, focusing on protecting major cities such as New York and Washington, D.C., and sensitive military sites before expanding nationwide.
- While the technology exists, defense contractors and military officials highlight significant organizational and logistical challenges, requiring a Manhattan Project-scale effort to implement.