DUBAI (Web Desk) – In a historic first, Brigadier General Shariful M Khan, a Bangladeshi-born Muslim officer, has been appointed Director of Staff for the Golden Dome Initiative at the Pentagon, a top-secret, high-tech missile defence programme often referred to as America’s version of the Iron Dome.
In this critical role, Brig. Gen Khan will be responsible for overseeing strategy, policy, and coordination with industry leaders, academic institutions, national laboratories, and government agencies to develop and deploy next-generation missile defense systems.
His appointment is being hailed as a significant milestone for diversity in the US defence establishment, a powerful symbol of inclusion and progress, with a Muslim officer of Bangladeshi origin now helping lead one of the nation’s most vital defence programs aimed at protecting the US homeland and its allies.
A 1997 graduate of the US Air Force Academy, Brig Gen Khan brings extensive experience in space systems, satellite operations, and national reconnaissance. He has commanded elite units, including the 379th Space Range Squadron and the 310th Space Wing at Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado, where he led nearly 1,500 personnel.
His operational credentials include two deployments to the Middle East, notably during Operation Silent Sentry in 2007. He has also held key senior roles at the Pentagon, U.S. Space Force, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
In recognition of his distinguished service, Brig. Gen. Khan has received several top U.S. military honors, including the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
The official U.S. Air Force website notes: “For 75 years, American Airmen have excelled as they execute the Air Force mission to fly, fight, and win — delivering airpower anytime, anywhere in defense of our nation. Airmen are called to Innovate, Accelerate, and Thrive.”
Brig. Gen. Khan’s leadership of the Golden Dome initiative is not just a professional achievement, it's a reflection of the growing diversity in the highest ranks of U.S. military leadership.