Pete Hegseth rejects China's 'Golden Dome' accusation, Defends U.S. actions as Homeland protection
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth rejects China’s claims that the ‘Golden Dome’ missile system is offensive, insisting it’s vital for protecting the U.S. homeland amid growing global tensions.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth firmly rejected China’s claims that the new "Golden Dome" missile defense initiative is an offensive capability and said this is purely a project designed to defend America from future missile threats. Hegseth characterized China’s reaction as a propaganda effort designed to discredit U.S. defense projects. He repeated that securing the lives of Americans is the priority, not being offensive. The Pentagon maintains its position that this effort is purely a defensive effort.
The "Golden Dome" is a $125 billion initiative that Hegseth and President Donald Trump announced, which seeks to establish a space-based missile shield that will protect against any threats, including ICBMs and other missiles launched from space. Hegseth called it a “generational investment” in national security. The program is expected to be completed in three years, and U.S. officials say it is a necessary step to take against evolving threats across the globe.
China warns of Space Militarization as Hegseth faces backlash over Pentagon Prayer initiative
China's response - issued through Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, accused the U.S. of militarizing space and violating international accords such as the Outer Space Treaty. Beijing also articulated concern that such developments might evoke a new arms race. They coaxed the U.S. to stop development and rethink its intentions to establish missile defenses globally. China described the project as a fissure in international relations.
In addition to missile defense, Hegseth is pursuing cultural changes inside the military. He instituted a monthly Christian prayer service at the Pentagon under the guise of America's founding principles, and as part of America's military tradition. He said the military had a history of appealing to God dating to George Washington. The initiative has sparked controversy regarding religious inclusion and separation of church and state.
Hegseth announces Fort bragg pay raises, defends soldier-first leadership
Hegseth also visited Fort Bragg, where he announced the increases in jump pay for Army paratroopers $200 for normal jump pay and $300 for jumpmaster pay monthly. He praised bringing the base name back to Fort Bragg as evidence of support for military heritage. These announcements were part of broader efforts to enhance morale and respect the service of elite troops. Hegseth said that support for soldiers starts with support for their sacrifices.
When confronted about his lack of strategic military experience, Hegseth defended his qualifications based on his previous time as a soldier because he believed that his personal experience allows him to understand the benefit and needs of service members. Hegseth also stated that the Pentagon needs leaders who "think like the troops," instead of just experts in policy. Hegseth also committed to continue pushing their reforms targeting troop welfare and priorities focused on defense of the nation.
