Trump reveals Canada wants in on ‘Golden Dome’ defence shield

Canada appears to be “reaching for the stars” when it comes to national security. Yesterday, U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled plans for a “golden dome” over America—a proposed multi-dimensional missile defence system. During a press conference in the Oval Office, Trump said Canadian officials contacted him expressing interest in joining the ambitious security program. However, White House officials estimate the system will cost at least $175 billion to build, and that Canada would be expected to pay its, quote, “fair share.”

It appears Canada is on board with the mega-project after Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office confirmed that discussions are underway surrounding NORAD and the so-called “Golden Dome.” U.S. President Donald Trump is leaving nothing to chance when it comes to defending the United States. He and his defence secretary have announced plans to create a new air defence system they’re calling the Golden Dome.

Modelled after Israel’s “Iron Dome” system, the American version will be deployed across land, sea, and space. It will be equipped with interceptors capable of destroying rockets—even prior to launch. Defence contractor Lockheed Martin has been tasked with leading the project. The multi-layered programme is expected to cost at least $175 billion to build, and Trump has promised it will be fully operational before the end of his term.

The White House also says it’s open to international cooperation. Trump stated that Prime Minister Mark Carney and his government contacted his administration, expressing interest in joining the programme. He added that he is willing to work with Ottawa. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that discussions are ongoing with American counterparts regarding the strengthening of NORAD and other security initiatives, including the Golden Dome. It remains unclear what role Canada would play in the programme or how much it plans to contribute financially.

Two decades ago, Canada controversially opted out of the United States’ ballistic missile defence programme, choosing instead to monitor North American skies through NORAD—leaving U.S. forces responsible for intercepting potential threats. This latest security pledge follows a recent phone call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, China responded to the White House’s defence plan, warning that it carries “strong offensive implications,” increases the risk of an arms race, and further militarises outer space.

Despite Trump’s cost estimates, the Congressional Budget Office projected earlier this month that the space-based components of the programme alone could cost up to $542 billion over the next 20 years.

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