Indiana companies are expected to be involved in the development of President Donald Trump’s missile defense system over the United States that he refers to as the “Golden Dome.”
President Trump signed an executive order in January to direct construction of a defense shield similar to Israel’s “Iron Dome.” The dome would protect the United States from ballistic, hypersonic and advanced cruise missiles with satellites and missile batteries across the country.
On Tuesday, Trump announced that a $25 billion down payment was made on the project. It marks the first major funding step toward building the country-wide shield. The Golden Dome missile defense shield is projected to cost around $175 billion.
While speaking with Trump from the Oval Office Tuesday, U.S. Sen. Jim Banks, R-Indiana, said a good amount of the parts needed for the defense system will be made in the Hoosier State.
“Indiana is going to help you make it,” Sen. Banks told Trump. “Hoosiers are very proud of that and we’re proud of you.”
Banks mentioned defense contractor L3Harris, which has a space manufacturing site in Fort Wayne, and the Crane naval base in southern Indiana, which helps research and develop war technologies. L3Harris recently underwent a $125-million upgrade to support the project.
Banks said this project will have an even bigger impact on the world’s airspace than Space Force.
“Your legacy with the Space Force, Mr. President, was already big, but the Golden Dome is going to be an even bigger legacy for our country,” Banks added.
Indiana schools and leaders are tackling rising chronic absenteeism, defined as missing more than 10% of the school year, or about 18 days.
Governor Mike Braun signed a new law requiring schools to meet with parents of high school students who miss too much school.
The law also encourages prosecutors to work with families to find solutions before pursuing legal action.
Attendance USA, a national group, is holding its first conference this week to explore causes and solutions.
Experts say limited healthcare access and strict policies keep students from returning. Chronic absenteeism surged during the pandemic and continues to challenge schools statewide.
