Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed Wednesday that Canada is in high-level discussions with the United States about joining President Donald Trump’s proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense program—a sweeping $175 billion initiative aimed at countering missile threats through space- and ground-based systems.
The Golden Dome system is designed to intercept missiles at every stage of their trajectory: before launch, during early flight, midcourse, and final descent. Most notably, it would mark the first time U.S. missile defense capabilities are deployed in space. President Trump announced earlier this week that he expects the multilayered system to be fully operational by the end of his current term in 2029.
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Prime Minister Carney said the Canadian government is seriously evaluating participation, citing future national security concerns. “Is it a good idea for Canada? Yes, it is good to have protections in place for Canadians,” Carney said during a press conference.
He confirmed ongoing talks with President Trump and senior U.S. officials, though he emphasized the military nature of the discussions. “These are military decisions taken in that context, and we will evaluate it accordingly,” Carney said.
Trump stated that Canada had already reached out to express interest in joining the program and added that the U.S. would work with Ottawa to ensure it contributes its “fair share” to the massive defense system.
Carney voiced concern over the evolving threat landscape, warning of potential future missile attacks — possibly from space — and highlighting the importance of Canada not being left out of strategic defense discussions. “Is Canada going to be doing this alone or with the United States?” he asked. “With a Golden Dome, there will be decisions that affect Canada, and we need a seat at the table.”
The Golden Dome system is partly a response to advanced missile technologies being developed by China and Russia. The Pentagon has repeatedly warned that existing defense systems may not be sufficient against hypersonic and space-based missile threats.
Canada and the U.S. are longstanding partners in the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a joint initiative safeguarding North American airspace. However, Carney has signaled a shift in Canada’s strategic approach. He has previously stated that the traditional, ever-deepening integration with the U.S. is “over,” and emphasized a more independent defense posture.
“We cooperate if necessary, but not necessarily cooperate,” Carney said, responding to Trump’s recent comment that Canada should be the 51st state — a remark that has stirred controversy north of the border.
Discussions on Canada’s role in Golden Dome are ongoing, with key decisions expected in the coming months.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
