At a Republican dinner in Florida on Monday, President Donald Trump emphasized that constructing an Iron Dome-like missile defense shield is a top priority for his administration. In a passionate address, he called for “immediate” action to begin the project, signifying that he would soon sign an executive order to kickstart the initiative.

Trump Promotes New Defense Leadership

During the event, Trump voiced his support for his newly confirmed Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth. After landing at Joint Base Andrews that evening, Trump confirmed that he had signed the executive order related to the Iron Dome project while on-board the plane.

“Pete Hegseth, who’s going to be great, by the way… I think he’s going to be fantastic,” Trump stated, expressing confidence in Hegseth’s capabilities. “We need him to immediately begin the construction of a state-of-the-art Iron Dome missile defense shield, which will be able to protect Americans.”

Historical Context and Technological Advancements

Trump outlined his rationale by discussing the historical interest in missile defense systems, referencing President Ronald Reagan’s vision during the Cold War. “We didn’t have the technology back then,” he noted, but today he believes that the United States “is entitled to that” level of protection given the advancements witnessed with Israel’s Iron Dome.

“Now we have phenomenal technology,” Trump said. “You see that with Israel. And everything will be made right here in the USA 100%.” He emphasized the necessity of ensuring that America maintains “the most lethal fighting force in the world,” underscoring a broader commitment to national defense.

State Department’s Commitment

The State Department echoed Trump’s priorities, listing the development of an Iron Dome-like system as one of Hegseth’s top tasks. According to their statement, “Other areas the secretary will study include reinstating troops that were pushed out because of COVID-19 vaccination mandates and developing an Iron Dome anti-missile system for the United States.”

Hegseth’s leadership in the Pentagon comes at a crucial time as defense strategies are being reconsidered in light of evolving threats and national interests. His mandate includes addressing the current challenges faced by the U.S. military.

Trump’s Ongoing Advocacy

This is not the first time President Trump has referenced the necessity of a U.S. Iron Dome. On January 20, during the Commander-In-Chief inaugural ball, he spotlighted the project, affirming that it was on his radar. “We’re also doing the Iron Dome all made in America,” he stated confidently. “We’re going to have a nice Iron Dome.”

During his 2024 campaign trail, Trump reiterated his intention regarding missile defense, claiming, “By next term, we will build a great Iron Dome over our country. We deserve a dome… it’s a missile defense shield, and it’ll all be made in America.” His statements reflect a framework of national security that emphasizes domestic production and technological superiority.