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Space Force eyes ‘novel’ development tools for Golden Dome space-based interceptors

Vice Chief of Space Operations Gen. Michael Guetlein testifies before the Senate Armed Services Committee about joint force readiness, March 12, 2025. (U.S. Air Force photo by Eric Dietrich)

By Theresa Hitchens

The Defense Department is considering innovative methods — such as prize contests and industry cooperation — for kick starting development of space-based interceptors (SBIs) under the Trump administration’s ambitious Golden Dome initiative, according to a senior Space Force official.

Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, acting head of space acquisition for the Department of the Air Force, told the House Armed Services Committee today that “from initial discussions” with the Pentagon’s new Golden Dome czar, Gen. Michael Guetlein, and his team, it is clear that the primary goal for SBIs is speed.

“They plan to intend to be as fast as possible,” he said. “[T]hey’re looking at really additional novel ideas, like prize activities, [and] cooperative work with industry where they’re leveraging industry development.”

Read more at Breaking Defense

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