Defense technology companies team up to support Trump’s Golden Dome
AeroVironment (AV) and Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) have formed a strategic partnership to develop an integrated, adaptable air and missile defense system in support of President Trump’s “Golden Dome for America” initiative, the centerpiece of his second term. The Golden Dome aims to create a massive layered defense shield capable of countering current and next-generation threats, including ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, drone swarms, and advanced cruise missiles. Initial efforts will focus on protecting high-value, limited-area targets such as military bases, airfields, and critical infrastructure, later expanding coverage with advanced space-based sensors. The companies plan to integrate passive and active sensing, directed energy, kinetic weapons, electronic warfare, and cyber solutions into a comprehensive “kill chain.” Sierra Space will contribute to addressing key challenges, while Gen. Michael Guetlein, recently confirmed by the Senate, will lead the $13 billion project, which President Trump pledges to complete within three years despite its projected $175 billion total cost.