Donald Trump has just delivered the longest speech an American President has ever given to a joint session of the United States Congress. Among the central themes, as far as this Agency is concerned, he emphasized two ambitious projects in the field of security, technology and space policy: the strengthening of national missile defense and NASA's future missions to Mars.

National Security and Defense
In his speech, Trump reiterated his administration's commitment to ensuring the safety of American citizens, emphasizing the need to modernize defense systems. Among the initiatives, he mentioned strengthening the capabilities of missile systems and cooperation with international allies, highlighting how the defense of the United States must be able to face emerging threats from both Government and non-government actors. In this context, the President referred to advanced interception and defense tools, recalling the Iron Dome, the mobile missile defense weapon system developed by the Israeli Rafael, capable of intercepting and neutralizing medium-speed rockets and artillery shells with a ballistic trajectory. This system, which has demonstrated its effectiveness during recent conflicts, is considered a key element in protecting critical infrastructure and safeguarding civilian lives. The President emphasized how the Iron Dome technology can inspire further investments in similar systems to strengthen national defense.

Innovation and technological transformation
Trump then emphasized the importance of investing in cutting-edge technologies, highlighting how the United States must attract "the best minds" to accelerate progress in the field of cybersecurity and air traffic control. He announced the intention to streamline hiring procedures within the Cyber Command, and to increase incentives for personnel, to address the persistent shortage of air traffic controllers and cybersecurity experts (see AVIONEWS 1, 2, 3, 4, 5). These measures, according to the President, are essential to maintain a safe aviation system and to counter digital threats, which have already highlighted significant vulnerabilities following past incidents.

Space Ambitions and the Future on Mars
Another pillar of the speech on Capitol Hill was the commitment to space exploration. Trump announced that the national space agency, NASA, is planning a series of missions to Mars aimed at collecting data essential for the future human presence on the Red Planet. These missions, which will start with advanced robotic exploration, aim not only to expand scientific knowledge but also to prepare the ground for a possible human presence on the fourth planet of the solar system. The goal is twofold: to deepen the understanding of Mars and to consolidate the leadership of the United States in the field of space exploration. NASA in fact recently published a statement highlighting the importance of these missions as an integral part of the national strategy for space expansion.

Economic and international impact
The "Tycoon" also touched on economic issues, emphasizing how investments in technology and security not only strengthen national defense, but also stimulate economic growth and the international competitiveness of the United States. He reiterated the need for a decisive foreign policy, which guarantees the well-being and security of the country, in a period in which geopolitical tensions and global challenges require rapid and effective responses.