Bangladeshi-Born Muslim Officer Appointed to Lead Top U.S. Missile Defense Program
In a historic milestone, Brigadier General Shariful M. Khan, a Bangladeshi-born Muslim officer, has been appointed as the Director of Staff for the Pentagon’s Golden Dome initiative, a highly classified missile defense program often referred to as America’s version of the Iron Dome.
In this pivotal role, Brig Gen Khan will oversee the development and implementation of strategy, policies, and partnerships with industry leaders, universities, national laboratories, and government agencies. His leadership will play a key part in advancing next-generation missile defense systems, protecting the United States and its allies from evolving threats.
Brig Gen Khan’s appointment marks a significant step for diversity in the U.S. military, highlighting the growing representation of Bangladeshi-born and Muslim officers in critical defense leadership roles.
A 1997 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Brig Gen Khan brings extensive expertise 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, leading nearly 1,500 personnel.
His career includes two deployments to the Middle East, including Operation Silent Sentry in 2007, and senior leadership roles at the Pentagon, the U.S. Space Force, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
Brig Gen Khan’s distinguished service has earned him prestigious military awards such as the Legion of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
The U.S. Air Force emphasizes: “For 75 years, American Airmen have excelled in executing 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 program signals a new era of innovation and strategic defense, reinforcing America’s commitment to safeguarding its homeland and allies through cutting-edge technology.