US and Japan Explore Collaboration on Golden Dome Defense

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba have discussed joint development of missile defense technology as part of the proposed “Golden Dome” system, Nikkei reported.

The Trump administration has allocated an initial US$25 billion for the initiative in a recent budget bill, with total costs potentially reaching US$831 billion over two decades, according to the US Congressional Budget Office. President Trump has announced that the Golden Dome system will be operational by the end of his term in 2029. “The Golden Dome will intercept missiles launched from anywhere in the world, including space,” he stated.

The system will integrate ground- and space-based interception technologies to counter ballistic, cruise, and next-generation aerial threats. Designed to detect and neutralize missiles at all trajectory stages — from pre-launch to terminal phase — the Golden Dome represents one of the most ambitious missile defense projects ever proposed by the United States.

Japan’s involvement could also influence ongoing trade negotiations, according to Nikkei. Participation in the project may strengthen Tokyo’s position in seeking concessions during tariff discussions with Washington. The United States and Japan have previously collaborated on missile defense, including the development of space-based interceptors.

President Trump has appointed US Space Force General Michael Guetlein to lead the initiative. However, concerns over the system’s technical feasibility and geographic scope persist. The Golden Dome would need to provide comprehensive coverage across the United States and address threats originating from space, posing significant logistical challenges.

International reactions have been critical. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning urged the United States to “abandon the development and deployment of a global missile defense system,” warning that it undermines strategic stability and risks turning space into a battlefield. She added that the plan could exacerbate an arms race.