The Return of the Dome: A New American Ambition
In a bold vision that echoes the strategic edge of Israel’s Iron Dome, former United States President Donald Trump has unveiled plans for a sweeping missile defence initiative — dubbed the ‘Golden Dome’. Designed to be an impenetrable shield from the ground, sea, and even space, the proposed system aims not only to protect the United States but also, potentially, Canada, irrespective of its political alignment with the idea.
With an estimated price tag of $175 billion, the system is expected to deploy cutting-edge technologies across multiple platforms. From Trump’s recent speeches to his March address to Congress, the former president has maintained a firm stance — that the United States must rival and even surpass Israel’s missile defence capabilities in an increasingly volatile world.
What Makes Missile Defence So Critical
Modern warfare is no longer restricted to battlefields or borders. The skies have become a strategic frontier, where advanced missile defence systems are the ultimate deterrents. These systems are multi-tiered and built to detect, intercept, and neutralize incoming threats across various flight phases — from launch to re-entry.
Trump’s vision appears to be rooted in this understanding, recognising that systems like Israel’s Iron Dome have saved thousands of lives. The urgency is also linked to recent security challenges faced globally — from Iran’s barrage against Israel to India’s own defence posture during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan.
Inside America’s ‘Golden Dome’
The proposed Golden Dome will feature a layered architecture. Its outermost warning layer would be the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS), relying on satellite sensors for early detection of launches. Ground-based radars will be integrated to track these threats in real-time.
Then comes the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) — the backbone of the US response to intercontinental ballistic missiles. Based primarily on the West Coast, the GMD interceptors are aimed at halting long-range threats in mid-flight. Supporting this effort at sea is the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system. Introduced during Barack Obama’s tenure, it uses upgraded SM-2 missiles on US Navy warships, making naval defence a crucial component of the network.
On land, the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) acts during the terminal phase of missile attacks. It’s a hit-to-kill platform, mobile and versatile, and has already proved its utility in regions like Israel, where it intercepted Houthi missiles launched from Yemen. Completing this inner layer are the PAC-3 (Patriot Advanced Capability-3) interceptors, which target short to medium-range threats and form part of the US-Japan defence strategy in the Pacific, especially in light of China’s growing hypersonic arsenal.
Israel’s Iron Dome and Beyond
The Israeli defence structure is often held as the gold standard. At its core lies the Iron Dome — the inner ring of a system that includes David’s Sling and the Arrow series for extended reach. The Iron Dome covers ranges up to 70 km with a reported 95 percent kill rate. Using radar, computer algorithms, and missile interceptors, it only fires when a projectile is headed toward populated or strategic areas.
Complementing this are David’s Sling, which can intercept missiles from up to 300 km away, and the Arrow-2 and Arrow-3 systems. Arrow-3, in particular, boasts the ability to neutralise threats even outside Earth’s atmosphere. Israel is also developing a high-powered laser system — the Iron Beam — which it claims can shoot at the speed of light, has no magazine limitations, and costs almost nothing per use.
India’s Integrated Shield in the Sky
India has built a multi-layered air defence network that blends its military branches into a centralised architecture. Under the Integrated Air Command and Control System, data is pooled and analysed in real time to counter threats.
India’s network starts with drone defence, using rapid-firing guns. The next level involves short-range missiles like the OSA-AK, Pechora, and Spyder, while the third layer includes medium-range interceptors such as the Akash and Indo-Israeli MRSAM. Long-range security is provided by the Russian-made S-400 systems, as well as Indian fighter jets. The Akashteer system integrates the Army’s capabilities, ensuring a seamless interface between air, land, and space platforms.
The Global Landscape: A Defensive Arms Race
The United States, Israel, and India are not alone in investing heavily in missile defence. Russia’s A-135 system protects Moscow, while the S-400 has become a global export, with India operating three squadrons. China’s HQ-9 system, now exported to countries like Pakistan and Egypt, has already been targeted during Indian military operations.
Taiwan’s Sky Bow systems and Japan’s upcoming deployment of PAC-3 interceptors highlight just how widespread the missile shield race has become. As geopolitical tensions deepen, many nations are working to develop or buy these layered networks.
Conclusion: The Sky Is the Next Battleground
Trump’s ‘Golden Dome’ may still be an idea in motion, but its announcement underscores a larger global trend. Missile defence is no longer optional; it’s an essential element of national security. As technologies evolve and threats grow more complex, the race to control the sky is intensifying — and those who fall behind may risk far more than just strategic losses.
