SpaceX Denies Bidding on Trump’s Golden Dome

SpaceX, in partnership with Palantir and Anduril, is a leading candidate for former President Donald Trump’s proposed 'Golden Dome' missile defense system, which envisions a constellation of 400–1,000 tracking satellites and 200 attack satellites for interception. The project, inspired by Israel's Iron Dome, remains in its early stages with more than 180 companies showing interest, and final contractor selections pending. SpaceX has suggested a subscription-based model for its satellite network, potentially costing $6–10 billion, but Elon Musk has publicly stated that SpaceX has not bid for the project and would prefer other companies take the lead unless directly requested by the President. The Pentagon is currently evaluating options, and deployment of the system is not expected before 2026. Musk’s roles as both a business leader and special adviser in the Trump administration have raised concerns about influence and procurement processes. The project was authorized by a January executive order and remains subject to further review.