United States President Donald Trump has unveiled new details and initial funding for his proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system — a comprehensive, multi-layered shield intended to protect the nation from missile threats launched from land, sea, air, and space.
The announcement has drawn immediate backlash from China, which accused Washington of destabilizing global security and accelerating a new arms race.
Speaking from the White House on Tuesday, Trump revealed an initial $25 billion allocation for the project. He estimated the total cost could reach $175 billion, with full deployment expected within three years.
“During my campaign, I promised the American people a cutting-edge missile defense shield. Today, I am proud to announce that we have officially selected the architecture for this state-of-the-art system,” Trump declared.
He added that once operational, the Golden Dome would have the capability to intercept missile attacks from anywhere in the world, including those launched from space. “This is crucial for the survival and success of our country,” he said.
The project will be overseen by U.S. Space Force General Michael Guetlein. Canada has also expressed interest in partnering with the United States to extend similar missile defense coverage.
The system will integrate next-generation technologies, including space-based sensors and interceptors, to defend against cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, and drones — whether conventional or nuclear.
Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth emphasized that the missile shield is critical to defending the U.S. homeland from a broad spectrum of evolving missile threats.
However, China strongly criticized the move, arguing that it threatens global stability and shifts the strategic balance. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning condemned the U.S. for pursuing unilateral security measures, warning that the plan could militarize space and spark a renewed arms race.
Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome — which has intercepted thousands of short-range rockets since 2011 — the Golden Dome is envisioned as a significantly larger and more sophisticated system. Unlike its Israeli counterpart, the U.S. version aims to counter advanced ballistic and hypersonic threats across a much broader geographic area.
The 2022 U.S. Missile Defense Review cited mounting concerns over missile advancements by China and Russia. It also emphasized the increasing use of drones in modern conflict and the continued threat posed by North Korea, Iran, and various non-state actors.
In recent years, U.S. defense systems have gained valuable combat experience intercepting missiles and drones, including efforts to protect Ukraine, defend Israel, and safeguard naval forces from Iranian and Houthi attacks in the Middle East.