What is the 'Golden Dome' Defence System Trump Announced?
U.S. President Donald Trump announced the Golden Dome, a $175 billion missile defense system to shield the U.S. from attacks.
US President Donald Trump has announced a major plan to build a powerful missile defence system called the “Golden Dome”. This system is designed to protect the entire United States from dangerous missile attacks using advanced technology from space and the ground.
The Golden Dome is not like the golden domes seen on mosques, gurdwaras, or religious buildings. This dome is imaginary and would act like a strong shield in the sky, covering the country like an umbrella to stop any incoming missile before it causes harm.
The system will use satellites with sensors to detect missiles as soon as they are launched. Then, fast rockets from the ground or space will fly out and destroy those missiles in the air. Smart computers and fast-response systems will make this process quick and safe.
Trump plans to complete the Golden Dome within the next three years, before his presidential term ends. The expected cost of the project is around $175 billion.
Trump also offered the Golden Dome to Canada for free, even though it would normally cost around $61 billion. But the offer came with a condition: Canada must become the 51st state of the United States.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited the White House on 21st May and confirmed that such discussions took place. He said it’s a good idea to protect Canadian citizens, but firmly rejected the offer. He clearly stated, “Canada is not for sale.”
Canada and the US already have a joint air defence system called NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) since 1950. In 2022, Canada announced a C$38.6 billion plan to upgrade NORAD, showing its strong commitment to North American defence.
Canada also plays a very important role in monitoring missiles coming from Russia and China by providing radars and airspace in the Arctic region. Many experts say Trump cannot build the Golden Dome without Canada’s help.
Trump had earlier suggested that Mexico should also become part of the United States. He said this would help avoid paying high tariffs during the trade war between the two countries.
But Mexico also rejected the idea. The Mexican government said that their culture, language, and identity are very different from the US and must be respected.
There are also long-standing issues between the two countries, like illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and arms smuggling, which make the relationship more complicated.
