According to Reuters, SpaceX is leading efforts to assist President Donald Trump in developing the “Golden Dome” missile defense system. The company, owned by Elon Musk, is reportedly collaborating with data analysis firm Palantir and defense company Anduril to construct critical components of the Golden Dome, which, akin to Israel’s Iron Dome, would intercept and eliminate incoming missiles.
As Reuters reports, the companies have proposed deploying 400 to over 1,000 satellites for missile detection and tracking. Additionally, the project would include “a separate fleet of 200 attack satellites equipped with missiles or lasers” to neutralize threats. In January, Trump issued an executive order to develop the “Iron Dome for America,” though some estimates suggest the project could take years to complete.
Reuters indicates that SpaceX is unlikely to engage in the “weaponization of satellites.” Instead, it would offer a satellite constellation for missile tracking. SpaceX plans to invest between $6 billion and $10 billion in developing its share of the system. The company has reportedly proposed its involvement as a subscription-based service, requiring ongoing payments from the government for satellite usage.
In response to a rumor on X, Musk stated, “SpaceX has not sought any contracts in this area. If the President requests our assistance, we will be willing to help, though I hope other companies, not SpaceX, will handle this.”
