All articles tagged with #space weapon
The Pentagon has confirmed that Russia likely launched a counter space weapon into low Earth orbit on May 16, which is now in the same orbit as a U.S. government satellite. This development raises concerns about potential threats to U.S. space assets and the need to protect and defend the space domain. Russian officials have dismissed the Pentagon's statements as an "information leak."
The Biden administration had been working behind closed doors to dissuade Russia from testing its new space-based antisatellite weapon with nuclear capabilities, reaching out to Russia, China, and India as possible intermediaries. Concerned that public disclosure of the intelligence might scuttle their efforts, the administration had kept the information close-hold. Despite these efforts, Russia has not shown willingness to engage on the issue, leading U.S. officials to fear that Russia will move forward with testing the weapon, which could potentially damage satellites relied on for communication, internet, and military operations.
President Biden reassures the public that there is "no nuclear threat" to the U.S. despite Russia's consideration of an anti-satellite capability in space. The threat is related to a nuclear-powered space asset that could potentially be weaponized, but it has not been deployed. Biden has directed actions including additional briefings to Congress and diplomatic engagement with Russia and allies. Russian officials have dismissed the information as a "malicious fabrication."
The United States has briefed Congress and European allies about new intelligence regarding Russian nuclear capabilities, specifically related to their attempts to develop a space-based weapon. While the capabilities do not pose an urgent threat to the US, Representative Mike Turner issued a cryptic warning about a "serious national security threat." The intelligence is related to Russia's efforts to develop a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon, but officials emphasize that it is not currently in orbit and should not cause panic. The Biden administration has arranged a briefing with congressional leaders to discuss the matter further.