SpaceX’s Role in Golden Dome Missile Defence in Doubt Amid Musk-Trump Rift
The future role of Elon Musk’s SpaceX in a high-profile US missile defence project, known as “Golden Dome”, is now uncertain. This shift follows a public and dramatic falling out between Musk and President Donald Trump, according to three individuals familiar with the matter.
Until recently, the White House considered SpaceX a key player in the Golden Dome initiative. The company was expected to work alongside software firm Palantir and drone manufacturer Anduril. Together, they were meant to develop essential elements of the project. The Pentagon had been instructed to prioritise a satellite network at the core of the plan.
However, a revised framework is now under discussion. This new version may scale back or eliminate SpaceX’s involvement in the satellite portion. One option includes focusing instead on enhancing existing ground-based missile defence systems.
A Blow to SpaceX’s Government Ties
This change would be SpaceX’s first significant setback in its long-standing relationship with the US government. Industry experts say the incident highlights the personalised nature of Trump’s leadership, where political loyalty can heavily influence key decisions.
Laura Grego, a missile defence specialist at the Union of Concerned Scientists, voiced concerns. She warned that political considerations seem to be taking precedence over technical merit.
A White House spokesperson reaffirmed that decisions would prioritise “the best deal for America” and the use of cutting-edge technology. Meanwhile, the Pentagon said it had no updates regarding future Golden Dome contracts.
SpaceX, Anduril, and Palantir did not comment.
Musk’s Fallout with Trump and Industry Scramble
Musk, once a close advisor to Trump, contributed over $250 million to Trump’s re-election. But their relationship soured recently. Musk accused Trump of ties to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein and even called for the president’s impeachment.
The fallout has reportedly given the Pentagon greater freedom to consider alternative contractors. Insiders also noted confusion surrounding the project’s scope. One source stated that no clear requirements have been issued, leading to a scramble among companies keen to be involved.
Trump wants the Golden Dome system operational before the end of his presidency in January 2029. However, experts argue that the $175 billion cost and the timeline are overly ambitious.
SpaceX’s Satellite Proposal and Golden Dome Project Uncertainty
SpaceX had been eyeing the “custody layer” of Golden Dome. This involves deploying 400 to 1,000 satellites to detect and track incoming missiles aimed at the US. However, the current shift in strategy could see this component shelved or postponed.
In January, Trump signed an executive order mandating the selection of a system design and a plan by the end of March. He labelled missile attacks the most serious threat to US national security.
Following the dispute, Musk expressed regret and deleted some of his social media posts targeting Trump. The White House acknowledged Musk’s apology but declined to confirm whether it would improve his company’s standing with the administration.
Whether SpaceX will regain its footing in the Golden Dome project remains uncertain.
with inputs from Reuters