Trump’s Golden Dome missile defense plan draws sharp criticism from China

China has expressed deep concern over President Donald Trump’s proposal for a new U.S. missile defense system known as the Golden Dome. The system, designed to protect against adversarial attacks on America, has been criticized by Chinese Foreign Minister Mao Ning for its “strong offensive nature” and violation of the principle of peaceful use in the Outer Space Treaty.

Mao Ning stated that the Golden Dome project could escalate the risk of turning space into a war zone, create a space arms race, and disrupt the international security and arms control system. China urged the U.S. to abandon the development and deployment of the global anti-missile system to maintain strategic mutual trust between major countries and safeguard global strategic stability.

The U.S. has accused China and Russia of placing offensive weapons in space, such as anti-satellite capabilities that could potentially be used to disrupt U.S. satellite operations. President Trump outlined the Golden Dome plan, projecting a cost of $125 billion and aiming for completion before the end of his term in office. The current government funding bill includes an initial $25 billion for the project.

Despite China’s objections, the U.S. remains committed to the Golden Dome project, citing the need for enhanced missile defense capabilities. The White House has yet to comment on China’s reaction to the proposal. The Kremlin, on the other hand, suggested that the project could lead to discussions on strategic arms control between Russia and the U.S.

Space Force officials have raised concerns about China’s growing space-based targeting capabilities and its maneuvers in orbit. Chinese advancements in satellite technology have been described as “mind-boggling,” with hundreds of satellites dedicated to tracking U.S. assets in space. The U.S. Space Force has observed China practicing satellite “dogfighting,” demonstrating their ability to conduct complex operations in orbit.

As tensions rise over the Golden Dome project, the U.S. and China are at odds over the militarization of space and the implications for international security. The future of space-based defense systems and strategic arms control agreements remains uncertain as both countries navigate the complexities of modern warfare and technological advancements in space.