Trump unveils $175B (CAD 240B) missile defence plan amid global concerns
Donald Trump announced an ambitious defence project worth $175 (CAD 240) billion. This project, called the Golden Dome, aims to protect the USA from missile attacks, even from those launched from space. The president's idea is eliciting many critical opinions.
Donald Trump intends to protect the USA from threats from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and other powers. He wants to employ the latest technologies to intercept ballistic and hypersonic missiles. The $175 (CAD 240) billion project is set to be completed as early as 2029.
Although ambitious, these plans provoke mixed feelings. Experts suggest that challenges in executing them within the specified time are almost certain. This may also be related to financial concerns. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the cost of building the new system could amount to as much as $831 billion (CAD 1.1 trillion).
My focus is on building the most powerful military of the future. [...] That's something we want, and Ronald Reagan wanted it many years ago, but they didn't have the technology, but it's something we're going to have [...] Israel has it, other places have it, and the United States should have it, too — Donald Trump argued during a speech in Congress.
Critics of the Golden Dome in "The Daily Beast" warned that it will result in the redirection of public funds to companies like SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk, a supporter of the current presidential policy. Reactions have also appeared on the international stage.
Russia and China (during a joint leaders' meeting in Moscow) expressed concern. Mao Ning, spokesperson for the foreign ministry of the latter country, stated at a press conference that Donald Trump's idea could lead to a violation of the principles of peaceful use of outer space and "is destabilizing."
Meanwhile, the Canadian organization Canadian Peace Initiative voiced concerns that building such an advanced defence system could trigger an arms race and disrupt the balance of power in the world.
Trump's Golden Dome: How does it work?
The project may also attract more favourable comments. Experts highlight that the current system based on Patriots is inadequate and outdated, making changes necessary.
The Golden Dome will enable the interception of missiles launched from various parts of the world and outer space. To ensure adequate security, satellites will be utilized, which will track threats and neutralize them using ground-based missiles.
