Canada may soon join forces with the United States in a high-stakes security project aimed at defending North America from modern missile threats. The Canadian government has confirmed that talks are underway about joining the proposed “Golden Dome” system, a missile defence initiative announced by US President Donald Trump earlier this week.
The Golden Dome, inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome, is designed to protect against next-generation aerial threats like hypersonic missiles and long-range attacks.
Trump has pitched the system as a massive upgrade to North American security, promising to have it up and running by the end of his term. A staggering $25 billion. But the long-term cost could balloon to over $540 billion, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
So, where does Canada fit in?
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office confirmed that security and defense are a priority in ongoing talks with the US. These discussions include strengthening NORAD, a long-standing partnership between the two countries focused on air and maritime defence, as well as exploring participation in the Golden Dome project.
However, the details are still murky. Canada hasn’t committed to a price tag or a clear role in the system yet. Officials say it’s too early to tell what Canada’s contribution would look like or how the system would be integrated across both nations.
Trump, never one to miss a moment, stated that Canada “wants protection too” and that the US, as usual, is ready to help. He also made it clear he expects Canada to “pay its fair share.”
The backdrop to this collaboration is complex. Tensions have recently flared between the two countries over trade, with Trump even suggesting Canada might be better off as a US state. That comment sparked a wave of Canadian pride, which many credit for helping Carney’s Liberals win a landmark election.
By Risper Akinyi
