Reviving the Golden Dome: A Strategic Shield Against Nuclear EMP Threats

The concept of a Golden Dome, envisioned during the Cold War by past leaders and recently revisited by former President Donald Trump, could serve as a vital defense against the perilous threat posed by nuclear electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attacks. This assertion comes from historian William Forstchen, a bestselling author and well-known authority on EMPs, who elaborated on the potential benefits of such a defense system in an interview with Fox News Digital.

Understanding the EMP Threat

Forstchen explained that the threat of an EMP strike is not merely a product of science fiction; rather, it has been acknowledged for many years. He emphasized the severity of the danger, stating that without appropriate measures, an EMP strike could devastate the country’s infrastructure and lead to widespread fatalities.

“The potential for such an attack has been known for decades. We require a strategic defense system that can respond effectively,” he stated. “The technology to create this defense is now available, unlike in the 1980s when it was merely a proposal.”

The Golden Dome Concept

Unlike Israel’s Iron Dome, which intercepts incoming missiles at lower altitudes, the proposed Golden Dome would function at a strategic level. It aims to destroy intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) during their ascent, well before they reach American soil.

“The Iron Dome protects against regional threats, but the Golden Dome would be a more expansive shield against global threats,” Forstchen said. “We need to ensure that America is shielded from these powerful weapons.”

The Statistic Behind Preparedness

Citing congressional reports from 2002 and 2008, Forstchen revealed alarming data indicating that 80 to 90 percent of Americans could perish within a year following an EMP strike. This statistic underscores the urgency of developing a credible defense system.

Trump’s administration initiated plans to create a new missile defense shield aimed at addressing these vulnerabilities. In January, Trump signed an executive order directing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to oversee the construction of what he termed an “Iron Dome for America.”

Promises and Progress

“We will build a great Iron Dome over our country by the next term. It’s a missile defense shield, and all components will be manufactured in America,” Trump asserted during a rally. He vowed to prioritize missile defense as a part of his campaign commitments.

However, the realization of this promise has faced delays. Forstchen noted, “Time is of the essence. We must not let this lapse into neglect. The Department of Defense began investigating the Golden Dome concept in 2020, but the pandemic and changes in administration have stalled progress.”

Investment in National Security

Investing in such a defense system may evoke apprehension due to its cost. Nevertheless, Forstchen articulated that this investment parallels homeowners purchasing insurance to safeguard their properties.

“Just as people protect their homes, we need a robust insurance policy to protect the United States,” he said. “The cost may be substantial, but we must weigh this against the potential expenses associated with failing to act.”

Potential Threats from Adversaries

Forstchen specifically mentioned the rising threats from nation-states such as North Korea and Iran. He recalled a time when the primary adversaries were Russia and China, stating, “In the past, a mutual assured destruction strategy mitigated immediate threats. However, with rogue states like North Korea, the calculus changes significantly.”

“The risk of an irrational actor striking the U.S. is increasingly plausible. Today, I worry more about North Korea and Iran than traditional powers.”

Voices from the Past

Echoing Forstchen’s concerns, the late Peter Pry, a renowned nuclear weapons expert and former staff director at the Congressional EMP Commission, warned of the dire consequences of an EMP event. Before his passing in 2022, Pry described how an EMP attack could have catastrophic effects: “Vehicles could stop functioning, aircraft could plummet, and essential services like natural gas and nuclear reactors would be at risk of catastrophic failure.”

Pry asserted, “A prolonged blackout following such an event would pose a severe danger to the survival of the American populace.”

Looking Forward with Urgency

As America contemplates the potential implications of an EMP attack, the urgency for a proactive stance grows. Addressing vulnerabilities through the proposed Golden Dome could create a safety net that shields the nation from unforeseeable threats.

“We must act swiftly and decisively. Delaying necessary measures is not an option,” Forstchen cautioned. The message is clear: the specter of an EMP attack is real, and the implications for national security are profound.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Department of Defense for further comments on this emerging national security concern.