The US Space Force has advanced its missile defense plans by selecting 12 companies to develop early space-based interceptor systems for the proposed ‘Golden Dome’ shield program.
The announcement came through the Space Systems Command, which confirmed that contracts were awarded between late 2025 and early 2026. These agreements, known as Other Transaction Authority (OTA) deals, are valued at up to $3.2 billion.
The selected companies include Anduril Industries, Booz Allen Hamilton, General Dynamics Mission Systems, GITAI USA, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Quindar, Raytheon Technologies, Sci-Tec, SpaceX, True Anomaly, and Turion Space.
Each of these firms will work on prototype systems designed to intercept enemy missiles from space. The idea is to destroy threats shortly after launch or during flight, before they can reach their targets.
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This effort is part of a larger defense vision known as ‘Golden Dome,’ introduced under President Donald Trump. The program aims to build a broad, layered shield to protect the United States against advanced missile threats, including ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles.
The total cost of the Golden Dome project is estimated at $185 billion. Officials expect initial operational capability by 2028, with the full system ready by the mid-2030s.
At the heart of this plan are space-based interceptors, also known as SBIs. These systems will operate in a proliferated low Earth orbit. This means many smaller satellites are working together instead of a few large ones. Each satellite would carry kinetic interceptors that physically hit and destroy incoming missiles.
The systems are being designed to work across multiple stages of a missile’s flight. This includes the boost phase right after launch, the midcourse phase in space, and the glide phase as the missile approaches its target.
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Col. Bryon McClain said the program is moving quickly to keep pace with growing threats. He said, “Adversary capabilities are advancing rapidly, and our acquisition strategies must move even faster to counter the speed and maneuverability of modern missiles.” He added that OTA agreements helped attract both traditional defense firms and newer companies, thereby increasing innovation and competition.
The Pentagon has requested $17.5 billion for the Golden Dome program in fiscal year 2027. However, only $398 million of that is part of the base budget. The rest depends on future funding approval from Congress.
The program is being coordinated by the Office of Golden Dome for America, led by Gen. Michael Guetlein. Multiple military branches and defense organizations are also contributing by offering existing systems and developing new technologies.
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While the idea of intercepting missiles from space dates back to the 1980s, recent advances have made it more practical. Lower launch costs and improved space technology have opened the door for systems like SBIs. Still, experts note that building such a large and effective network remains a complex challenge.
The newly awarded contracts aim to deliver working prototypes by 2028. These will then be tested and integrated into the broader Golden Dome system.
