The missile shield project proposed by Donald Trump could cost much more than the estimated. In a report published on Tuesday, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that a national missile defense system with capabilities matching Donald Trump’s requirements would cost around $1.2 trillion to develop, deploy, and operate over twenty years. This evaluation far exceeds the figures previously mentioned by the White House.
In May 2025, Donald Trump presented his project called “Golden Dome,” inspired by the Israeli model of the “Iron Dome.” He then wished to see this system operational before the end of his term in 2029. At the time, he had assured that the total cost would be “about $175 billion once completed.” However, several experts had doubts about the feasibility of the program, suggesting that it could duplicate the missile defense systems already used by the United States.
China and Russia firmly opposed
According to the CBO report, the space component of the program would represent nearly 60% of the total expenses. Like the Strategic Defense Initiative launched by Ronald Reagan in the 1980s, also known as the “Star Wars,” the “Golden Dome” involves deploying interceptor satellites in space. The stated goal is to quickly neutralize intercontinental ballistic missiles targeting the American territory.
The project also raises international reactions. Last year, China and Russia made it clear that they strongly opposed the system envisioned by Donald Trump. The criticism focused on the strategic and military implications of such a large-scale space defense system.
