The United States has launched an innovative missile defense mechanism termed the "Golden Dome," aimed at safeguarding the nation from the menacing missiles of adversaries. On May 20, President Donald Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth made this announcement. This robust system will be constructed at a cost of $175 billion, offering protection from space to the ground. Why does America see the need for this system, and from which missiles will it safeguard the nation?
What is the Golden Dome?
The Golden Dome is a revolutionary missile defense system intended to shield the US from ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles. It encompasses hundreds of satellites in space, capable of detecting missile launches instantly and neutralizing them. This system aims to bolster the existing defense mechanisms like THAAD and Aegis. Collaborations with organizations such as NORAD, USNORTHCOM, and USSPACECOM are integral to this endeavor.
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Source: aajtak
What Missile Threats Loom Large?
The US faces threats from various nations, notably missiles from China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran, which have significantly vaulted forward in advancement, causing considerable concern. Let's delve into these missile systems...
China's Missile Arsenal
DF-17: A hypersonic missile traveling at five times the speed of sound, alterable in its trajectory, thus exceedingly difficult to intercept.
DF-41: An intercontinental ballistic missile capable of spanning 12,000 kilometers, potentially armed with multiple warheads that could reach the US.
Moreover, China's FOBS (Fractional Orbital Bombardment System) propels missiles into space to launch attacks, rendering traditional defense mechanisms ineffective.
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Source: aajtak
Russia’s Missile Threats
Avangard: A hypersonic glide vehicle traveling at a staggering Mach 20, attached to ICBMs, and can outmaneuver defense systems in flight.
Kinzhal: An air-launched missile zipping at Mach 10, notoriously tough to intercept.
Russia boasts 350 ICBMs and 192 SLBMs (submarine-launched ballistic missiles), posing potential threats to America.
North Korea's Arsenal
Hwasong-17:
Regarded as North Korea's most powerful ICBM, it can cover the vast expanse of the United States, equipped with multiple warheads. North Korea is strategizing simultaneous missile launches, straining defense capabilities.
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Source: aajtak
Iran’s Missile Power
Khorramshahr-4:
Designed in 2023, this ballistic missile can transport 1,500 kg warheads over 2,000 kilometers, posing threats to American forces and its Middle Eastern allies. Although current Iranian missiles cannot reach the US, future advancements might alter this scenario.
How Golden Dome Operates?
The Golden Dome functions as a "layered defense" system, integrating multiple stages.
Space Satellites: A constellation of satellites rapidly detects missile launches and utilizes interceptors or lasers to neutralize threats.
Ground Systems: Further reinforcement of existing systems like THAAD, Aegis, and ground-based mid-course defenses will occur.
Real-time Tracking: Both space and ground sensors will deftly track missiles, quashing them at critical junctures.
Next-gen Technology: Cutting-edge lasers and non-kinetic weaponry will address the hypersonic missile threat.
Source: aajtak
Why Invest in this System?
While previous systems could intercept traditional missiles, the emergence of hypersonic and multi-warhead missiles introduces an intensified threat level, rendering old systems less effective. New technologies such as Russia's and China's FOBS and hypersonic glide vehicles challenge traditional defenses. Golden Dome represents a strategic shield, ensuring America's safety and deterring enemies.
Cost and Timeline
This colossal Golden Dome project will incur $175 billion. The initial $25 billion has already been incorporated into the landmark "One Big Beautiful Bill." President Trump envisions project completion by January 2029, marking the conclusion of his presidential term. However, experts express caution, indicating the possibility of unforeseen costs and timeline extensions.
