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In a historic first, Brigadier General Shariful M. Khan, a Muslim officer born in Bangladesh, has been appointed as the Director of Staff for the Golden Dome initiative at the Pentagon—an ultra-secret, high-tech missile defense program often referred to as America’s version of the Iron Dome.
In this vital position, Brig. Gen. Khan will lead efforts in developing strategies, establishing policies, and fostering partnerships with industry leaders, universities, national laboratories, and government agencies to create and deploy next-generation missile defense systems.
His appointment marks a significant milestone for diversity within the U.S. defense sector, demonstrating that a Bangladeshi-born Muslim officer is now at the helm of one of America’s most critical missile defense projects—protecting both the homeland and allied nations.
A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1997, Brig. Gen. Khan possesses extensive experience in space systems, satellite operations, and national reconnaissance missions. He has commanded elite units, including the 379th Space Range Squadron and the 310th Space Wing at Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado, overseeing nearly 1,500 personnel.
Khan has deployed twice to the Middle East, including participating in 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 top military honors such as the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
The U.S. Air Force website emphasizes: “For 75 years, American Airmen have excelled, executing the mission to fly, fight, and win—delivering airpower whenever and wherever our nation needs it. Airmen are called to innovate, accelerate, and thrive.”
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