• Trump plans to create a space-based missile defense system called the Golden Dome to protect the U.S. from nuclear threats.
• Tech and defense companies, including SpaceX and Palantir, are competing to build and launch the Golden Dome system’s satellites.
• Critics warn the plan is too costly and unlikely to succeed, while supporters argue it is crucial for national security.

Donald Trump wants to create a powerful missile defense system. He calls it the “Golden Dome.” His idea is to stop nuclear missiles before they hit the United States. The plan includes using space-based technology. Trump announced this project during his 2024 campaign. He says it will make America safer. Supporters say the technology is now strong enough to make it work. But critics warn it will cost a huge amount of money.

How the Golden Dome Could Protect America from Missiles

The Golden Dome would use satellites to watch for enemy missiles. These satellites would find the missile right after launch. A base in Colorado would sound the alarm. The president would get a quick warning. This Golden Dome project aims to shoot down missiles, stopping attacks before causing any damage. It works like a shield in space.

Trump Signs an Order and the Pentagon Begins the Process

On January 27, Trump signed an executive order to start the project. The Pentagon quickly began reviewing ideas. Defense officials say they want to act fast. They will choose the top designs and announce their decision soon. This Golden Dome plan is part of Trump’s larger goal to make the U.S. stronger in space and national defense.

Tech Companies and Defense Firms Race to Join the Project

Major tech firms like SpaceX, Palantir, and Anduril want to take part. These companies already work on advanced defense tools. They plan to build hundreds of small satellites. Some satellites will track missiles. Others may carry weapons to destroy them. Many of these firms support the Republican Party and have close ties to Trump. Old defense companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman also want in. Over 180 firms have sent ideas to the Pentagon. All of them want a piece of the Golden Dome project.

Elon Musk Says SpaceX May Not Join, but Others Disagree

Elon Musk says he doesn’t want SpaceX involved in military attacks. He spoke out after people linked his Starlink satellites to Ukraine’s defense. But experts believe SpaceX will still play a role. The company has the rockets to launch many satellites quickly. Some believe Musk could charge the U.S. for access to his satellites. Critics say this is risky. They want the government to control all parts of the Golden Dome system.

Trump Sets a Tight Deadline and Wants Action Fast

Trump told voters in 2024 that he wants the Golden Dome ready by his next term. He said, “We will build a great Iron Dome over our country.” That means the Pentagon has to move fast. They aim to launch the first satellites by early 2026. Some defense leaders warn against rushing. They say speed could lead to costly mistakes. But Trump wants results and says America needs this Golden Dome shield now.

Experts Say the U.S. Needs a Defense System in Space

Retired Admiral Mark Montgomery says it’s the right time for a space defense system. He believes technology is strong enough now for the Golden Dome. He also says past presidents, like Ronald Reagan, had similar dreams. Reagan’s “Star Wars” plan in the 1980s never came true. But today’s tools make Trump’s vision more realistic. Montgomery warns that rushing the project could waste billions. He wants a smart, long-term plan instead of a quick fix.

Critics Say the Golden Dome Will Not Work and Costs Too Much

John Tierney, a former Congressman, leads a group that opposes missile defense. He says these systems give people false hope. His group found that past systems only stopped missiles 40% of the time. He says they will fail against powerful nations like China or Russia. Tierney also says the plan will cost more than $2.5 trillion. Some Republicans in Congress already asked for $27 billion just to get started. He warns that private firms could make huge profits while taxpayers take the risk.

Some Defense Experts Believe the Golden Dome Is Worth It

Tom Karako, a missile defense expert, says the plan makes sense. He thinks the cost could stay around $10 billion a year and believes the U.S. must build a strong shield. He points to threats from Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Karako says the Golden Dome could protect lives and buy time in a crisis. He supports using space to guard against surprise attacks.