Trump's 'Golden Dome': A New US Space Defense Project
US President Donald Trump has approved a new space-based missile defense project called 'Golden Dome'. The goal of this project is to protect against possible missile attacks from potential enemies like China and Russia.
What's in the Golden Dome project?
Under this initiative, hundreds of satellites will be deployed in space that can detect, track, and destroy enemy missiles. The initial budget is set at $175 billion, and the project is scheduled to launch by January 2029.
Costs and Challenges
The Congressional Budget Office reports that the total cost of the project could rise to $831 billion over the next two decades. Analysts say this could become a long-term 10-year project with rising expenses.
Who is leading it?
The project is being led by US Space Force General Michael Guetlein. Trump called this project the “shield of the homeland.” Even neighboring Canada has shown interest in participating.
Echo of the Past: Star Wars
Trump mentioned that former President Ronald Reagan also aimed to build a similar space defense system called ‘Star Wars’. But due to lack of technology at the time, it was not possible.
Conclusion
If successfully implemented, ‘Golden Dome’ will strengthen the US defense system. However, it faces major financial and political challenges ahead.