Trump's Golden Dome Missile Shield Estimated to Cost 10-100 Times More Than Manhattan Project

Trump's Golden Dome Missile Defense Shield Estimated to Cost 10 to 100 Times More Than Manhattan Project A new study from a center-right think tank has concluded that President Donald Trump's proposed Golden Dome missile defense shield will cost significantly more than initially estimated, potentially reaching into the trillions of dollars. The report, released last week, contradicts the White House's May statement that the project would cost $175 billion over three years. According to the study, designing, deploying, and sustaining the Golden Dome system could cost anywhere from $1.75 trillion to $17.5 trillion over several decades. This estimate is based on the assumption that the project will require a multi-layer shield with advanced technologies, as described in Trump's January executive order. The White House had stated that the initial $175 billion allocation was sufficient to develop the necessary capabilities for Golden Dome. However, Todd Harrison, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), wrote in his study: "The capabilities this level of funding can buy fall far short of what the president promised, creating a multi-trillion-dollar gap between rhetoric and reality." Lawmakers have expressed concerns about the project's cost and feasibility. In July, Congress committed $25 billion as a down payment for new missile-defense technologies. However, some lawmakers argue that this amount is insufficient to develop the full range of capabilities envisioned for Golden Dome. The study's findings have sparked debate among policymakers and experts. "We need to be realistic about what we can achieve with our resources," said Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. "We should focus on developing practical solutions that address real-world threats, rather than chasing after expensive and unproven technologies." On the other hand, some Republicans have defended the project's cost and potential benefits. "Golden Dome is a critical component of our national security strategy," said Representative Mike Rogers (R-AL), a member of the House Armed Services Committee. "We need to invest in cutting-edge technology to protect ourselves from emerging threats, and this project will pay dividends for generations to come." The study's conclusions have significant implications for the future of Golden Dome. The report suggests that the project will require sustained funding over several decades, potentially straining federal budgets. As policymakers grapple with the costs and benefits of Golden Dome, one thing is clear: the project's fate will be shaped by a complex interplay of politics, budgetary constraints, and technological feasibility. Background The Manhattan Project, which developed the atomic bomb during World War II, cost an estimated $23 billion in today's dollars. In contrast, the estimated costs for Golden Dome range from 10 to 100 times higher. Additional Perspectives Critics argue that the project's high cost is a result of Trump's overambitious vision and unrealistic expectations. "The president has a tendency to promise more than we can deliver," said Senator Chris Coons (D-DE). "We need to be honest with ourselves about what we can achieve, rather than trying to fit square pegs into round holes." Supporters argue that the benefits of Golden Dome outweigh its costs. "This project will create jobs, stimulate innovation, and enhance our national security," said Representative Mac Thornberry (R-TX), a member of the House Armed Services Committee. Current Status The study's findings have sparked renewed debate about the project's cost and feasibility. As policymakers weigh their options, it remains to be seen whether Golden Dome will become a reality or remain a distant promise. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*