China says Trump weaponising space with ‘Golden Dome’

As the US pushes forward with its ambitious Golden Dome missile defense system, China raises alarms over its potential to weaponise space and ignite a global arms race.

Here's a look at posible reasons  Beijing is deeply concerned.

The Golden Dome is a proposed missile defense system inspired by Israel's Iron Dome, developed under Donald Trump's administration. It aims to create a multi-layered shield against incoming missiles, both on the ground and in space.

The system is designed to intercept missiles at four stages: before launch, during early and mid-flight, in mid-course, and just before impact.

Trump has claimed the system could intercept missiles launched from anywhere in the world, including space.

However, the plan has raised concerns, especially from China, about the risk of weaponising space and escalating global tensions.

Why is China concerned about the Golden Dome?

China has expressed grave concerns over the Golden Dome, particularly regarding the possible militarisation of space, according to the Beijing-based Global Times. 

Chinese officials said, the system could "turn space into a war zone" and spark a dangerous arms race in space.

The Golden Dome’s focus on space-based interceptors raises alarms because it could allow the US to deploy weapons in orbit, breaching existing space treaties like the Outer Space Treaty (OST), which prohibits the placement of weapons of mass destruction in space.

Additionally, the project could destabilise the global security environment by giving the US a significant strategic advantage in space-based warfare, potentially disrupting the delicate balance of military power.

China, alongside Russia, has already labeled the Golden Dome as a "destabilising" initiative.

The escalating tensions reflect the growing divide between the US and its rivals, especially as missile technologies evolve and military needs change.