The United States carried out the first test of its new multi-layered missile defense system, Golden Dome, in the state of New Mexico. The announcement was made on X by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

"Today, the first historic test of the Golden Dome for America (GDA) system was completed with total success, and it was a great honor for me to witness this event. With Golden Dome, the Department of War will protect our homeland more effectively than ever before," Hegseth said.

On January 7, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the creation of the missile defense system. It is intended to counter threats from Russia and China and envisions deploying hundreds of satellites in Earth orbit to detect and destroy hostile missiles during the boost phase of their flight.

In February 2025, the government of Canada expressed interest in participating in the Golden Dome program. U.S. Space Force General Michael Guetlein was appointed to oversee the development of the missile defense system.

The preliminary cost of the project has been estimated by the White House at $175 billion. However, the U.S. Congressional Budget Office believes that implementation could take 20 years and require at least $500 billion.