President Donald Trump is set to announce the appointment of US Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein to lead the “Golden Dome” missile defense project aimed at safeguarding the United States from potential foreign threats. The initiative, combining current ground-based missile interceptors with advanced space-based systems, represents Trump’s initial move towards implementing the ambitious defense program. The exact scope and funding of the project remain subject to further development and congressional approval, with cost estimates ranging from $25 billion to $35 billion for initial research and development alone, and projections of up to $831 billion over the next two decades.

Guetlein’s selection underscores the administration’s focus on expertise in missile defense systems and procurement, as he currently serves as the vice-chief of space operations within the Space Force. The project is expected to involve partnerships with major defense contractors, such as SpaceX, leveraging their rocket manufacturing capabilities for military payloads and advanced surveillance tools. Additionally, established defense companies like Lockheed Martin and Raytheon are poised to contribute existing missile defense technologies to enhance the project’s capabilities.

Inspired by Israel’s successful “Iron Dome” program, Trump’s vision for the Golden Dome emphasizes the importance of a robust missile defense system to counter potential threats from countries like China, Russia, and North Korea. Originally dubbed “Moonshot Plus” and “Moonshot Plus Plus,” the project’s tiers have been renamed as silver, gold, and platinum domes to reflect different levels of capability. The announcement, scheduled to take place at the White House alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, marks a significant step towards bolstering the nation’s defense capabilities against evolving global challenges.