The dome project originated from a Jan. 27 executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which established the development of a next-generation missile defense shield as national policy. The order, which initially branded the initiative as "Iron Dome for America," emphasized the growing threats posed by ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles.
While modeled after Israel's Iron Dome, the American version is envisioned on a much larger scale, designed to protect the entire U.S. homeland from advanced missile threats.
Space-based sensors have been identified as key components. The executive order directed the Department of Defense to explore the potential deployment of space-based interceptors that would launch in response to an attack.
The Missile Defense Agency is leading industry engagement efforts to assess technological capabilities.