Anduril expands into space targeting role in Trump’s Golden Dome

Defense technology company Anduril Industries, founded by Oculus creator Palmer Luckey, is expanding its focus into space-based defense capabilities as it seeks to play a role in President Donald Trump’s proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense system. The company aims to leverage its expertise in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems to support next‑generation military architectures in orbit.

Announced in May 2025, the Golden Dome initiative is designed as a large-scale missile defense shield intended to protect the United States from ballistic and hypersonic threats. The program envisions a layered architecture combining ground systems with satellites, sensors and potentially space-based intercept capabilities. Estimates suggest the project could cost around $175 billion and be developed within a few years.

Anduril is positioning itself to contribute technologies such as space-based sensing, autonomous data processing and command-and-control software. The company has already taken steps toward space capabilities through partnerships with spacecraft manufacturers, including collaboration with Apex to integrate AI-powered payloads and processing systems for satellite missions.

The move reflects a broader shift in the U.S. defense sector, where emerging technology companies are competing with traditional contractors for major Pentagon programs. Alongside established players such as Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, Anduril is increasingly viewed as a potential participant in the Golden Dome ecosystem.