President Donald Trump signed an executive order to develop a U.S. missile defense system modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome, calling it a top national security priority. The initiative seeks to establish a “next-generation missile defense shield” to counter advanced threats from Russia, China and North Korea.
What will the missile defense plan include?
The executive order, announced Monday, Jan. 27, directs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to deliver a comprehensive plan within 60 days.
The plan includes accelerating the deployment of space-based missile tracking systems, developing interceptors capable of neutralizing missiles during launch phases and updating threat assessments to protect critical U.S. locations.
Why are experts skeptical about a U.S. Iron Dome?
Currently, the U.S. relies on missile defense systems like the Patriot and THAAD, as well as the Navy’s Aegis system.
However, experts have expressed skepticism about adapting a system like Israel’s Iron Dome to the geographic scale of the United States.
Instead, Trump’s vision emphasizes a multi-layered approach to intercepting short- and long-range missile threats at various stages of flight.
How does this tie to Reagan’s ‘Star Wars’ initiative?
Trump linked the initiative to former President Ronald Reagan’s Strategic Defense Initiative, known as “Star Wars.” It aimed to protect the U.S. from nuclear attacks during the Cold War.
While Reagan’s vision was never fully realized, Trump said advancements in technology make this new effort feasible. He emphasized that all components would be manufactured domestically.
What challenges remain for the missile shield?
The executive order coincides with broader military reform efforts led by Hegseth. It includes reevaluating global missile defense postures and strengthening allied cooperation.
While timelines and costs for the proposed system remain unclear, the initiative reflects growing concerns over missile advancements by U.S. adversaries.
The order outlines a roadmap for addressing evolving threats. This includes hypersonic missiles and potential rogue-state attacks, reinforcing Trump’s commitment to “peace through strength.”
