The "Golden Hoard" Plan: A US Space-Based Defense System
Donald Trump's "Golden Hoard" plan envisions a complex space-based defense system designed to counter emerging threats from adversaries. The goal is to develop a layered system capable of detecting, tracking, and intercepting advanced weaponry. If the system can function as envisioned, the US would need to place sophisticated technology in space. Some worry it could instigate dangerous military activity in space.
Evolving Threats and the Need for Defense
The US anticipates that its competitors, specifically China and Russia, will continue to develop advanced missile technology. These new weapons will be able to maneuver and evade current defense systems. We must anticipate new developments and understand what our competition may develop.
To understand the need for the "Golden Hoard," it's crucial to examine the evolution of missile technology. Traditional Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) follow a predictable trajectory.
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ICBMs fly on a high arc, reaching hundreds of miles above Earth.
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Their predictable paths make them easier to detect and track via radar.
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Current defense systems are designed to intercept these ICBMs.
Fractional Orbital Bombardment System (FOBS)
A more recent and dangerous development is the Fractional Orbital Bombardment System (FOBS).
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FOBS fly much lower than traditional ICBMs.
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They are launched into a partial or fractional orbit.
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They can reach targets faster and approach from unexpected angles.
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This makes them harder to detect and intercept.
Hypersonic Glide Vehicles
Another emerging threat is hypersonic glide vehicles.
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These are global-range weapons that can maneuver to avoid defenses.
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They are launched into space and then glide towards their targets at speeds exceeding Mach 5.
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Their low-altitude gliding and mid-air maneuvers make them difficult to detect and counter.
The Golden Hoard: A Multi-Layered Defense
The "Golden Hoard" aims to bolster US defenses against these new threats. Existing satellite networks can detect launch signals. However, these systems cannot determine the type of launch. There is a need for sensors that can track objects in motion and intercept them.
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Detecting maneuvers
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Countering glide
These are the challenges to be solved.
The Pentagon is developing a layered sensor network, which Trump intends to accelerate. This system would involve deploying hundreds, or even thousands, of sensors in space. These sensors would be capable of detecting and tracking missiles as they move and change course. The system is intended to calculate the trajectory of incoming missiles, enabling defense systems to intercept them.
Potential for Space-Based Interceptors
The "Golden Hoard" may not be limited to detection. The US might also deploy space-based interceptors. The design of these interceptors is currently unclear.
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Theoretically, space-based interceptors could engage threats earlier in their flight path.
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However, deploying interceptors in space is extremely expensive.
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Such interceptors could be used offensively to target enemy satellites.
Concerns and Opposition
The potential for offensive capabilities has raised concerns among US competitors, especially China and Russia.
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These nations oppose the "Golden Hoard" due to its potential for military applications in space.
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They urge the US to abandon the development and deployment of global anti-missile systems.
Cost and Feasibility
Trump estimated the "Golden Hoard" would cost \$175 billion and be completed by the end of his term. Some sources suggest the cost could be significantly higher and take longer to build, if it is ever completed. Past attempts at similar missile defense systems, such as under President Ronald Reagan, failed due to high costs, technological limitations, and international pressure. It remains to be seen whether Trump can overcome these same obstacles.
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