Ottawa/Washington, May 23 – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Wednesday that Canada is in discussions with the United States about joining President Donald Trump’s proposed $175 billion “Golden Dome” missile defense system, which aims to deploy weapons in space for the first time.
The multilayered defense network is designed to detect and intercept missiles at four critical stages: before launch, during early flight, midcourse, and final descent toward targets. Trump said on Tuesday he expects the system to be fully operational by the end of his term in 2029.
Carney confirmed high-level talks with Trump’s administration, describing the prospect as “a good idea” for Canada to enhance its defenses amid emerging missile threats from space. “It’s something that we are looking at and something that has been discussed at a high level,” Carney said, adding that Canada would carefully evaluate the military and strategic implications.
The Canadian leader also cautioned that while Canada could be impacted by decisions made under the Golden Dome program, the country must decide whether to participate or face such consequences without being involved.
Canada and the U.S. currently collaborate on aerospace defense through the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), which protects airspace over both countries.
The Pentagon has long warned that advances in missile technology by China and Russia necessitate updated defense systems. The Golden Dome program’s main costs are associated with adding satellites and interceptors aimed at neutralizing advanced missile threats early in their flight.
Trump said Canada had approached his administration about joining and that Ottawa would be expected to contribute its “fair share” to the program.
Despite close cooperation, Carney emphasized a cautious approach to the U.S. alliance. “We cooperate if necessary but not necessarily cooperate,” he said, underscoring the evolving nature of Canada-U.S. relations under his leadership. The discussions mark a significant development in North American missile defense strategy amid growing global security challenges.
