The Pentagon is developing the Golden Dome missile defense system, a four-layer shield inspired by Israel's Iron Dome, with a planned launch around 2028. The system will integrate one satellite-based layer and three land-based layers, including 11 short-range interceptor batteries distributed across the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii. The ground layers will feature interceptor missiles, radars, and a new launcher to facilitate interceptor deployment, incorporating existing technology such as the Patriot missile defense system. The project, initiated under the Trump administration, is estimated to cost $175 billion. Despite the announcement, major defense contractors including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, and Northrop Grumman have expressed uncertainty regarding detailed system specifications, highlighting ongoing challenges related to complexity, costs, and project transparency. The Pentagon revealed these details during a recent Space & Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville, Alabama, through a slide presentation to over 3,000 contractors. Elon Musk's SpaceX is reportedly unlikely to participate in the satellite component of the Golden Dome system.