Deploying components of President Trump’s proposed Golden Dome missile defense system in Greenland is a strategic move that experts believe would enhance the safety of Americans. The massive Arctic island, which is nearly four times the size of Texas, is deemed “critical” for intercepting intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) from adversaries like Russia and China.
Greenland’s geographical location places it directly in the flight path of missiles launched from these nations, making it an ideal site for early detection and intercept capabilities. Justina Budginaite-Froehly, a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, emphasized Greenland’s importance for monitoring potential threats. She noted that due to its geographic position, incorporating missile defense into Greenland’s infrastructure is essential. Budginaite-Froehly highlighted that routes from Russia to the US via Greenland are among the shortest.
Trump has plans for the Golden Dome — a multi-layered missile defense system that aims to neutralize various threats, including hypersonic and ballistic missiles, claiming it will be effective even against long-range launches. Congress has already allocated around $25 billion toward its development, although overall costs are projected to reach $175 billion. In his recent comments, Trump underscored the necessity of Greenland for the success of this initiative, asserting that it is vital for bolstering US defenses.
Experts warn that, unlike Israel’s Iron Dome, the US currently lacks robust defense mechanisms against incoming ICBMs. Peter Doran, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, explained that many Americans mistakenly believe the country is adequately defended against missile threats from nations like Russia. He expressed concern over the perceived risks without a viable defense system in place.
An ICBM launched from Russia can reach a US target in approximately 40 minutes, prompting urgency in enhancing the country’s defenses. The capabilities of Russia’s “Satan II” ICBM, which has a range of 6,200 to 11,800 miles and can carry multiple warheads, further underscore the need for an effective deterrent.
While there have been discussions about potential interceptors at Fort Drum, New York, some defense analysts, including Doran, argue that Greenland offers unique advantages. He insists that positioning the Golden Dome interceptors in Greenland would enhance the margin for error in intercepting incoming missiles, making American defenses more robust.
By adopting this proactive defense strategy, the US aims to secure its homeland more effectively, granting future administrations better tools to manage threats. The potential deployment of the Golden Dome in Greenland represents a significant step toward safeguarding national security in a rapidly changing global landscape.