Golden Dome is expected to incorporate advanced technologies, including space-based interceptors and directed-energy weapons. However, many early components are likely to derive from existing platforms, placing established defence firms such as L3Harris Technologies, Lockheed Martin, Boeing and RTX Corp in a favourable position.
“We clearly have a whole number of product lines that will contribute very well, that are going to fit very well with what is necessary to achieve the mission,” said Tim Cahill, President of Missiles and Fire Control at Lockheed Martin. “The key is going to be in the acceleration in some cases of production for volume, the upgrades potentially, the enhancements,” he added, speaking to reporters at the Paris Airshow.
Lockheed Martin currently supplies systems such as the C2BMC missile detection and command system, the PAC-3 air defence missile and the THAAD interceptor, all of which could be integrated into Golden Dome. At the same event, Boeing’s interim CEO for space and defence, Steve Parker, confirmed the company had done “a lot of work” on the initiative but did not provide further detail.
Boeing’s portfolio includes compact laser weapons designed to disable drones and potentially intercept missiles, along with components for the PAC-3 missile, such as seekers. Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s SpaceX is regarded as a leading candidate due to its dominance in satellite and rocket launch capabilities, although recent tensions between Musk and Trump have led to a review of existing contracts, Reuters reported last week.
Other potential contributors include AI firm Palantir and defence technology company Anduril, both seen as providers of key system components. Lockheed’s President of Rotary and Mission Systems, Stephanie Hill, acknowledged the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “It’s going to take all of industry … defence industry, commercial industry, it’s going to take all of government and academia to really make this Golden Dome for America.”
Hill also revealed that Lockheed has engaged in “a lot of discussions” with potential partners on Golden Dome but did not disclose specific companies. She noted that firms like SpaceX, Palantir and Anduril could bring valuable technologies to the system.
Despite the strong industry interest, funding for the project remains uncertain. While Republican lawmakers have proposed an initial $25 billion investment as part of a larger $150 billion defence package, the funding is currently tied to a controversial reconciliation bill that faces challenges in Congress.
Source: Reuters.
