
North Korea has strongly criticized the US’s plan for a futuristic “Golden Dome” missile shield, calling it a “very dangerous threat” that could lead to nuclear conflict. According to state media, Pyongyang’s foreign ministry slammed the plan as “the height of self-righteousness [and] arrogance”.
The ministry accused Washington of being “hell-bent… to militarise outer space” and warned that the plan might spark “a global nuclear and space arms race”.
The Golden Dome plan, announced by President Donald Trump, aims to counter “next-generation” aerial threats, including ballistic and cruise missiles. North Korea views this as a significant threat to its nuclear arsenal, with senior analyst Hong Min stating that Pyongyang probably sees the Golden Dome as capable of weakening its nuclear capabilities.
If the US completes its new missile defense program, North Korea will likely develop alternative means to counter or penetrate it.
International Reactions
- China’s Concerns: China has also expressed concerns about the Golden Dome plan, stating that it is “seriously concerned” about the system’s “strong offensive implications”. China’s foreign ministry emphasized that the US’s pursuit of absolute security for itself undermines global strategic balance and stability.
- Global Implications: Many analysts believe an update to the US’s limited defense systems is necessary, but some warn that developing the Golden Dome could face technical and political challenges. The estimated cost of the project is substantial, with an initial sum of $25 billion earmarked in a new budget bill, and potential costs reaching 20 times that amount over decades.
North Korea has strongly condemned the US’s plan for a “Golden Dome” missile shield, calling it a “very dangerous threat” that could lead to nuclear conflict. According to North Korea’s foreign ministry, the plan is a “threatening initiative aimed at threatening nuclear weapons states” and accused the US of being “hell-bent on moves to militarize outer space”.
The Golden Dome plan, announced by President Donald Trump, aims to counter “next-generation” aerial threats, including ballistic and cruise missiles from countries like North Korea, China, Iran, and Russia, with an estimated cost of $175 billion.
Contrasting Perspective
In contrast, some analysts believe that the Golden Dome plan is a necessary update to the US’s limited defense systems, despite the hefty price tag and potential technical and political challenges.
They argue that the system would enhance national security and protect against emerging threats. However, others warn that such a system could escalate tensions with adversaries, including North Korea, and potentially trigger a new global arms race.