"The Golden Dome" Missile Defense System Moves Forward With Live Tests Anticipated in 2028

August 6, 2025 - Washington, D.C. – The Golden Dome missile defense initiative President Trump unveiled in May 2025, is powering forward to create an impenetrable shield against hypersonic and ballistic missiles, drawing on cutting-edge space-based technologies to protect the homeland. Modeled after Reagan’s Strategic Defense Initiative, this $175 billion program aims to deploy a constellation of satellites with sensors and interceptors to detect, track, and destroy threats mid-flight before they reach U.S. soil. With $25 billion already secured from Congress, The Golden Dome represents a bold step to counter adversaries like China and ensure American dominance in defense.

At the heart of Golden Dome are advanced technologies making what was once science fiction a reality. Space-based interceptors, including kinetic satellites that maneuver to strike high-speed targets, form the core, with options like lasers under evaluation for precision kills. Supporting systems include infrared seekers for terminal-phase tracking and ground-based Aegis Combat Systems for layered defense. The initiative requires thousands of orbital assets, building on existing missile warning satellites to provide real-time detection and response.

Leading the charge is Lockheed Martin, committed to on-orbit testing of a hypersonic-destroying satellite interceptor by 2028. As prime contractor for the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI), targeting operational capability by fiscal 2028, and the Navy’s Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) hypersonic system, slated for sea-based deployment in 2027-2028, Lockheed leverages decades of expertise. Northrop Grumman is advancing with ground tests of orbital missiles for Golden Dome integration, intensifying competition to supply critical components. L3Harris contributes multi-domain solutions for threat identification and defeat, ensuring a comprehensive layered approach. These industry giants, partnered with the Pentagon, are overcoming physics challenges through breakthroughs in guidance and maneuverability.

Currently, Golden Dome is in active development, with Gen. Michael Guetlein at the helm expressing confidence in a 2028 test-ready platform using proven elements. The Pentagon has scheduled the first major test for before the 2028 election, focusing on space-based capabilities. Recent milestones include Lockheed’s successful Aegis simulation of hypersonic intercepts in the March 2025 Stellar Banshee exercise. Budget projections span $161 billion to $830 billion over 20 years, but the initiative’s strategic value in deterring global threats justifies the investment.

Testing plans center on achieving historic space intercepts by 2028, paving the way for full deployment. Trump aims for operational status by 2029, though supply chain and procurement hurdles may extend timelines—challenges being addressed through whole-of-government efforts. This shield will secure America’s future, embodying strength and innovation against evolving dangers.