Central ND News

As the United States grapples with emerging threats, missile defense is seen as a critical component in countering adversary missiles and other dangers to national security. Shortly after his inauguration in January, President Donald Trump issued an executive order for the development of a next-generation missile defense shield.

In a recent announcement at the White House, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), who chairs the Senate Armed Services Airland Subcommittee, joined fellow committee member U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK), President Trump, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Vice Chief of Space Operations General Michael Guetlein to unveil plans for a Golden Dome missile defense system.

Senator Cramer emphasized the importance of protecting American citizens: “Providing for the common defense of American citizens is our first Constitutional responsibility.” He noted that threats have evolved over time and stressed the need to modernize missile defense infrastructure to safeguard against advanced missile attacks. He expressed support for President Trump's vision: “I applaud President Trump’s innovative and bold vision to create a safer, more secure America and Congress is ready to work with him to make it a reality.”

President Trump also announced General Guetlein's nomination to lead this initiative. Last month, General Guetlein visited North Dakota with Senator Cramer and SDA Director Derek Tournear. Their visit included stops at the University of North Dakota's John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences and National Security Corridor at the College of Engineering & Mines, as well as Grand Forks Air Force Base and Cavalier Space Force Station.

Senator Cramer voiced strong support for General Guetlein's leadership role in the project: “I strongly endorse General Guetlein for the role in leading the Golden Dome project,” adding that he knows no one better suited for this task.