President Donald Trump's proposed Golden Dome missile defense initiative is encountering significant hurdles related to funding, congressional backing, and technical feasibility. The project, designed to protect the United States from threats such as intercontinental ballistic missiles and drones, is estimated to cost between $185 billion and $3 trillion. The Pentagon is seeking $17 billion through budget reconciliation and $400 million via standard appropriations for the upcoming year. However, some Republicans, including House Appropriations defense subcommittee chair Ken Calvert, question the efficiency of these funding methods. The initiative aims to integrate existing and next-generation systems with artificial intelligence, with key components expected to be operational by 2028. Despite the ambitious goals, concerns about limited consultation and the affordability of space-based interceptors have been raised by lawmakers. The program received approximately $23 billion last year, but delays have affected its progress. The White House plans to shift funding into the federal budget after 2027, contingent on congressional support, particularly from cautious Republicans.