Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the Golden Dome missile shield, rejecting China's accusations of its offensive intent and space militarization.

Golden Dome Project Draws International Scrutiny

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth firmly denied China’s assertion that the United States’ new missile defense initiative, known as the Golden Dome, poses an offensive threat and risks turning outer space into a militarized conflict zone. Speaking during a visit to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Hegseth emphasized that the initiative is about safeguarding the homeland.

“All we care about is protecting the homeland,” Hegseth said. The Golden Dome, backed by President Donald Trump, is described as a generational investment under the administration’s America First policy. The plan aims to complete the space-based missile shield within three years at a projected cost of $125 billion.

China’s Foreign Minister Mao Ning recently condemned the initiative, calling it a violation of the Outer Space Treaty and warning of its potential to ignite an arms race. “The project will heighten the risk of turning space into a war zone,” Mao said, urging the U.S. to abandon the system.

Faith at the Pentagon and Military Compensation Reform

Hegseth also addressed domestic criticisms over his decision to launch a monthly Christian prayer service at the Pentagon, which sparked debate over religious freedom and the constitutional separation of church and state. He defended the move by citing historical precedent. “Appealing to heaven, to God, is a longstanding tradition in our military,” he said, referencing George Washington's legacy.

“I appeal to Jesus Christ for that protection,” Hegseth stated, adding that those who oppose this openness are “on the wrong side.”

At Fort Bragg, Hegseth announced that the base would officially return to its historic name, reversing its previous rebranding as Fort Liberty. “It is Fort Bragg again,” he told cheering paratroopers, while acknowledging the patriotic value of both names.

In response to questions about his qualifications to serve as Secretary of Defense, Hegseth dismissed critics who argued the position should be reserved for generals or business leaders. “We can have a guy that thinks like the troops,” he asserted. He described his firsthand experience in uniform, drawing applause from soldiers present.

Hegseth also revealed a boost in jump pay for Army paratroopers. Hazardous duty incentive pay will rise from $150 to $200 per month. For jumpmasters, the increase is more substantial—from $150 to $300. “Here’s to our paratroopers, our jumpmasters, who do the difficult things in difficult places that most Americans can never imagine,” he said.

According to Gen. Gregory Anderson of the 18th Airborne Corps, the Army currently supports 56,756 paid parachutist positions. That number will be reduced by 20,000 to improve training and maintain higher proficiency. “The goal has to be really good quality over quantity,” Anderson noted.

Hegseth concluded his remarks by affirming the administration’s dedication to troop welfare and national defense, reinforcing the Golden Dome as a cornerstone of long-term security strategy.