In a recent phone conversation, U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba discussed potential collaboration on the “Golden Dome,” a proposed space-based missile defence system aimed at protecting against threats from nations like China and Russia.
The project, inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome, envisions a vast network of satellites and interceptors designed to detect and neutralise incoming missiles.
The U.S. Congressional Budget Office estimates the total cost of the Golden Dome could reach up to $831 billion over the next two decades.
President Trump aims to have the system operational by the end of his term in 2029.
Japan’s involvement in the project could serve as a strategic advantage in ongoing trade negotiations with Washington, potentially aiding Tokyo in securing concessions on tariffs.
The Golden Dome initiative has faced criticism over its feasibility and cost, with some experts expressing concerns about the technological challenges and the potential for escalating an arms race in space.
Despite these concerns, the proposed collaboration between the U.S. and Japan on the Golden Dome underscores the strengthening of their alliance and shared commitment to regional security.
