Bangladeshi-American Shariful Khan appointed to lead US secret missile defence project

Brigadier General Shariful M. Khan, of Bangladeshi descent, has been appointed director of the United States Department of Defense’s highly classified Golden Dome Initiative, a top-secret missile defence programme.

Often described as the “American Iron Dome”, the initiative aims to develop a modern missile defence system. In his new role, Khan will oversee strategy, policy formulation, and coordination with the defence industry, universities, research laboratories, and government agencies. His appointment marks a notable milestone in US defence history.

Khan graduated from the US Air Force Academy in 1997 and has extensive experience in space systems, satellite operations, and national reconnaissance missions. He previously commanded an elite unit at Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado, supervising around 1,500 personnel.

He has served twice in the Middle East, including during Operation Silent Sentry in 2007, and has held senior positions at the Pentagon, US Space Force, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Khan’s distinguished service has earned him multiple awards, including the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.