The US Space Force is set to initiate a solicitation inviting contractors to develop prototype interceptors aimed at destroying incoming missiles during their midcourse trajectory, which occurs when warheads traverse space.
This initiative signifies a progressive phase of the Golden Dome project, a national missile defense endeavor launched during the Trump administration that aspires to establish a defense network comparable to Israel’s Iron Dome.
According to the Space Systems Command, the goal is to award multiple fixed-price contracts by February 2026. The project may also introduce prize-style competitions to encourage rapid innovation within the industry.
Details regarding the technical specifications provided in the solicitation are limited, with the primary focus on “hit-to-kill” interceptors. This approach is designed to eliminate targets through direct impact rather than relying on alternative methods like lasers or directed-energy technologies.
Contractors interested in participating in the bidding process must request the relevant documents by December 2025. However, access to detailed requirements and technical specifications will only be granted to companies that successfully navigate government eligibility assessments.
The US Space Force has emphasized that this solicitation does not guarantee the issuance of contracts.
The Golden Dome initiative aims to create a comprehensive missile defense system that integrates existing sensors along with new space-based technologies, with an ambitious initial deployment target set for 2028. Critical to this system will be the midcourse interceptors, which provide an essential opportunity to neutralize intercontinental ballistic missiles that may circumvent boost-phase defenses—systems designed to engage missiles shortly after their launch.
These interceptors, operating in the vacuum of space, benefit from shorter engagement distances and avoid atmospheric interferences, simplifying the targeting process in comparison to early-phase defense systems.
Gen. Michael Guetlein, who oversees the Golden Dome project, recently detailed the evolving architecture of the initiative during closed-door briefings with lawmakers.
In addition, the Pentagon is expected to issue separate awards through 2029 for companies that successfully achieve a set of predetermined ground and flight test milestones. However, some industry analysts have raised concerns regarding whether the anticipated funding will suffice to sustain the effort, as reported by the Arms Control Association.
