The United States’ $175 billion “Golden Dome” missile defense system will consist of four layers—one space-based and three ground-based—and is scheduled to become operational by 2028. A flagship project of the Trump administration, the system will be deployed across the U.S. mainland, Alaska, and Hawaii, including 11 short-range batteries.
According to Reuters, slides presented last week to defense industry representatives in Huntsville, Alabama, detailed the system’s complexity and ambitious 2028 delivery target.
Cost and Budget
The total cost of the system is estimated at $175 billion. However, the exact number of launchers, interceptors, radars, and ground stations required remains uncertain. A U.S. official noted, “They have the resources, but no cost target has been set yet.” Congress allocated $25 billion for Golden Dome in the tax and spending package approved in July, with an additional $45.3 billion expected in the 2026 presidential budget request.
System Architecture
Slides indicate that Golden Dome will feature a space-based sensing and targeting layer along with three ground-based layers. These ground layers will include radar arrays, interceptor missiles, and possibly lasers. Lockheed Martin’s Next-Generation Interceptors (NGI) will serve as part of the “upper-layer” defense alongside THAAD and Aegis systems. NGI represents a modernized version of the Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) network, which protects against intercontinental ballistic missiles.
The presentation also revealed plans for a new launch site in the Midwest and highlighted technical challenges such as communication delays between systems. Notably, Elon Musk’s SpaceX was not mentioned in the project, while companies like Palantir and Anduril have submitted bids.
Functions and Objectives
The primary goal of Golden Dome is to intercept missiles during their boost phase, when they ascend predictably through the atmosphere. Space-based interceptors are planned to improve response speed. The final defense layer, referred to as the “lower layer” or “Limited Area Defense,” will include new radars, existing Patriot missile systems, and a new “common” launcher capable of firing interceptors against all types of threats.
Implementation Plan
Designed to be modular and portable, the system aims to minimize dependency on fixed sites and allow rapid deployment across multiple operational areas. Space Force General Michael Guetlein, recently appointed to lead the project, is tasked with forming a team within 30 days, presenting the initial system design within 60 days, and delivering a full implementation plan—including satellite and ground station details—within 120 days.
