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COLORADO SPRINGS – In a move to clarify details surrounding the ambitious Golden Dome missile defense concept, the U.S. Space Force chief of space operations addressed potential misunderstandings. Gen. Chance Saltzman emphasized at the Space Symposium that Golden Dome is envisioned as an intricate network of systems, not a singular procurement program. This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive missile defense shield to protect the United States from a range of threats, including advanced missile technologies.
Golden Dome: A System of Systems, Not a Single Program
Gen. Chance Saltzman, head of space operations for the U.S. Space Force, clarified the nature of the Golden Dome initiative during an April 9 news conference at the Space Symposium. He stated, “It’s not a system as in one single deliverable. There’s not going to be a ‘Golden Dome delivered.’ It’s a system of systems that has to operate cohesively. Consequently, there will not be one contract vehicle but rather, multiple programs contributing to address the mission against existing threats.”
The Golden Dome initiative, formalized via a White House executive order, is designed to construct a wide-ranging defense mechanism for the United States. This shield is intended to counter diverse missile threats, encompassing ballistic, hypersonic, and sophisticated cruise missiles.
Key elements of this defense system are anticipated to include space-based sensors and missile interceptors. Utilizing space for observation offers the advantage of early threat detection and swift response capabilities.
The Pentagon has been tasked with creating a detailed “architecture” for this missile defense shield. This involves designing the structural framework of the network, defining the organization of its components, and establishing their operational interactions.
According to Gen. Saltzman, this architectural planning is still in its preliminary phase. “We’re far from” finalizing the architecture, he noted. “Current efforts are focused on planning, assessing available resources, and identifying existing programs that could be integrated. This process remains preliminary and is pre-decisional.”
Integrating Existing Space Programs for Missile Defense
Several space programs already under development are being considered as potential contributors to the Golden Dome missile defense network. These include infrared sensor satellite networks being developed by both the Missile Defense Agency and the Space Force’s Space Development Agency. Furthermore, the executive order mandates the development of space-based interceptors capable of neutralizing enemy missiles during flight.
“This development requires ongoing effort and consideration for these new systems,” Gen. Saltzman commented.
Defense analysts have pointed out that the pursuit of a comprehensive missile shield is not a novel concept. Multiple administrations have explored similar initiatives since the Strategic Defense Initiative era, often known as “Star Wars,” during the Reagan administration. However, technological limitations and complex geopolitical factors have historically hindered complete realization.
Accelerating Missile Defense Development Timelines
Gen. Saltzman stressed that conventional Pentagon procurement timelines would impede the progress of this initiative. “A traditional Pentagon development program could extend to 12 to 17 years for completion,” he explained. The emphasis is instead on expedited progress: “What can be achieved within the next two to four years? That’s the immediate focus.”
To expedite the development process, both the Missile Defense Agency and the Space Development Agency have issued requests for information to private sector companies. This outreach aims to evaluate “the state of the possible,” according to Gen. Saltzman. This collaboration with industry is considered crucial for meeting the ambitious schedule.
“Cost estimations are premature without this initial assessment,” he added.
While the current administration has not yet released a cost estimate for the Golden Dome initiative, defense budget analysts suggest potential expenditures reaching tens of billions of dollars over the coming decade, contingent on the final scope and capabilities of the system.
Gen. Saltzman described the budgetary strategy: “Without an initial survey of available technologies and a structured system-of-systems approach, proper budgeting, program design, and acquisition strategies are unattainable.”
He indicated that the Pentagon intends to present preliminary analysis findings to the White House. “The expected presentation to the White House will involve a comprehensive overview. This will include identified systems, necessary investment programs, and estimated cost ranges,” he stated.
Cautioning against pursuing unattainable perfection, he concluded, “If we delay, aiming for an ideal, flawless solution, we risk stagnation and failing to achieve timely progress. Mission analysis is the essential first step in this iterative process.”