by WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former President Donald Trump has announced a $25 billion initial investment for a new nationwide missile defense system dubbed the “Golden Dome.”
The project, modeled in part after Israel’s Iron Dome, aims to protect the U.S. from growing missile threats by 2029.
The architectural design has been selected, and Trump says construction will begin soon—pending Congressional approval.
What Happened
On May 21, 2025, Donald Trump revealed that his administration has finalized an architectural plan for the Golden Dome defense system.
The initiative is designed to intercept threats from land, sea, and space using advanced technology, including space-based sensors and interceptors.
Trump, speaking from the Oval Office alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, declared the system would be operational by the end of his current term.
Key Details
- Initial Funding: $25 billion is earmarked in a Republican-backed budget package currently under negotiation.
- Total Cost Estimate: $175 billion, with the potential for cost increases.
- Location of Installations: Alaska, Florida, Georgia, and Indiana.
- Project Partners: American defense and tech firms (yet to be named).
- Timeline: Full deployment targeted before January 2029.
- International Interest: Canada is reportedly interested in collaborating.
Reactions or Statements
Trump described the plan as “the best system ever built” and emphasized its capability to intercept missiles launched from anywhere—even space.
“This system will be made entirely in the United States,” Trump said, also noting that military leaders supported the plan after he proposed it.
The former president previously mentioned his vision for a U.S. version of Israel’s Iron Dome in a March address to Congress.
Investigation or What’s Next
The Pentagon’s Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) recently published an unclassified assessment warning of expanding missile threats from China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.
The report emphasizes:
- Rising sophistication in intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs)
- Deployment of submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs)
- Development of hypersonic and orbital strike systems
- A likely increase in adversary capabilities by 2035
The DIA predicts that by 2035, no part of the U.S. homeland will be unreachable by advanced missile systems from hostile actors.
Congress has not yet approved funding for the full Golden Dome project, making future budget battles critical.
FAQs
What is the Golden Dome?
It is a planned U.S. missile defense shield inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome, but designed for long-range and space-based threats.
How much will the Golden Dome cost?
The initial funding request is $25 billion, with a full projected cost of around $175 billion.
Who will build the system?
American defense and tech companies, yet to be publicly named, will be involved in design and construction.
When will it be operational?
Trump stated the system should be fully functional by the end of his term in January 2029.
Why is the system necessary?
According to the Pentagon, foreign threats from missiles—including hypersonic and space-launched—are expected to significantly increase by 2035.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Donald Trump’s ambitious Golden Dome missile defense plan marks a major proposed investment in U.S. national security infrastructure.
With an initial $25 billion request and a bold architectural vision, the system aims to counter growing global missile threats.
However, its future now hinges on Congressional approval and public support as foreign adversaries rapidly advance their capabilities.
