Donald Trump's 'Golden Dome': A high-tech shield of lasers, space radars and missile interceptors

US is working on an advanced missile defence system called the "Golden Dome," aiming to create an invisible shield using space-based radars, missile interceptors, and laser weapons. This project, first envisioned by former US President Ronald Reagan 40 years ago, has been revived under US President Donald Trump's directive.
Inspired by Israel's Iron Dome, the Golden Dome aims to protect the entire US from threats like intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and hypersonic weapons. However, covering a country of this size presents major challenges. Experts are debating whether it will shield all US territories, including Hawaii, Alaska, and overseas military bases.
According to a report from Fox News, Defence leaders believe existing technology can make the Golden Dome possible. Raytheon CEO Phil Jasper stressed the need for a layered defence system to counter different threats, from drones to hypersonic missiles. Currently, US has missile defence systems like THAAD and Patriot, but their deployment is limited.
The department of defence (DoD) and the office of management and budget will soon present a funding plan for the project. Defence companies predict that certain elements of the system could be operational as early as 2026. The plan may start by protecting key cities like Washington, DC, and New York before expanding.
Jonathan Moneymaker, CEO of BlueHalo, said the biggest challenge is not technology but organisation, as multiple agencies must work together. Lockheed Martin executive John Clark suggested that existing defence systems could be repurposed, but this might temporarily reduce military readiness in other areas.
One major hurdle is tracking modern missiles that do not follow predictable paths, making them harder to intercept. Edward Zoiss of L3Harris Technologies highlighted the need for space-based radar to detect such threats effectively.
The Golden Dome may incorporate elements of current defence projects, such as the missile defence system protecting Washington, DC, and a new Iron Dome-style system being developed in Guam. US is also working on high-powered microwave weapons to counter drone attacks.
Funding for the Golden Dome is expected to be included in Trump's fiscal year 2026 budget request, but full implementation could take years and require significant investment. Acting undersecretary of defence Steven Morani acknowledged the challenges ahead but said the government is working with private sector partners to overcome them.