Brigadier General Shariful M. Khan has become the first Muslim officer appointed to lead the US Missile Shield, marking a historic milestone for diversity in the US military. His selection places a highly experienced leader in charge of a program vital to protecting the United States and its allies.
The Bangladeshi-born general has been named Director of Staff for the Pentagon’s Golden Dome initiative, a classified missile defense system often compared to Israel’s Iron Dome. In this role, Khan oversees strategy, policy, and collaborations with top universities, defense contractors, national laboratories, and government agencies to advance cutting-edge missile defense technology.
A graduate of the US Air Force Academy, Khan brings decades of expertise, including experience in space operations and satellite missions. He previously commanded elite units such as the 379th Space Range Squadron and the 310th Space Wing, managing nearly 1,500 personnel.
Khan has been deployed twice to the Middle East, including during Operation Silent Sentry in 2007, and has held senior positions at the Pentagon, U.S. Space Force, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense. His distinguished service has earned him honors including the Legion of Merit and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal.
After becoming U.S President, Donald Trump revealedGolden Dome, Next-Generation US Missile Defense Plan
