Lockheed Martin has approached the UK government to offer assistance in the construction of a new missile defence system for Britain, amid rising geopolitical tensions and moves by the US to invest in a “Golden Dome” project.

Frank St John, Lockheed’s chief operating officer, said the US defence group believed it could offer critical capabilities to the UK as the government decides on what approach to take. Labour’s recent strategic defence review highlighted the importance of air defence systems but did not include specific plans. 

St John’s remarks in an interview with the Financial Times follow on from the Trump administration asking for proposals from defence companies interested in building an ambitious “Golden Dome” for the US. Inspired by Israel’s Iron Dome short-range air defence system, the project aims to establish a space-based missile shield to protect the US against advanced missiles.