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$252 billion to $3.6 trillion

spacenews.com • September 29, 2026

WASHINGTON — A new report estimates the Golden Dome missile defense program could cost anywhere from $252 billion to $3.6 trillion over 20 years — depending on which threats it counters and where it provides coverage. The vast range underscores how many questions remain unanswered eight months after Trump announced the initiative, according to a study published Sept. 12 by the American Enterprise Institute.

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Golden Dome Missile Defense Program Faces Funding Crisis General Michael Guetlein, head of the Golden Dome missile defense initiative, warned that the program may halt due to funding issues as fiscal year 2027 begins on October 1, 2026. The Department of Defense has requested $17.5 billion for Golden Dome, but only $398 million is currently allocated in the base budget, with the majority relying on a reconciliation package that lacks bipartisan support. Guetlein emphasized that without funding, the program cannot proceed, stating, 'there is no Golden Dome because there is no funding.' The initiative's estimated cost has risen to $185 billion, but independent estimates suggest it could range from $252 billion to $3.6 trillion depending on its scope. Recent milestones include the groundbreaking of the first operational site and successful tests of missile defense capabilities. The Pentagon is considering contingency plans to maintain some funding for critical components, but no decisions have been finalized. 3 sources 29

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