Explained: Golden Dome, US' first space missile programme

It will be capable of intercepting missiles even if launched from space

- BY STEPHEN N. R.

In a move that could redefine global defence dynamics, US President Donald Trump has officially selected the concept for a new, ambitious US missile defence programme — the Golden Dome.

Costing an estimated $175 billion, this first-of-its-kind system would mark the United States' debut of deploying weapons in space, with Trump stating it could be operational by the end of his term in 2029. But military officials consider that timeline optimistic. Designed to counter evolving threats from adversaries, Golden Dome is being billed as the most advanced defence shield in US history — capable of intercepting missiles even if launched from space.

Here's a closer look ..

What is it all about?

Golden Dome is a multilayered missile defence system. Unlike previous systems, it will include both ground-based and space-based components that can detect, track and intercept missiles at all major phases of flight: Pre-launch, boost, midcourse and terminal (descent).