The U.S. military has recently confirmed the deployment of space-based weapons, raising concerns about national security amid perceived threats from Russia and China, particularly regarding their support for Iran. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink disclosed this information at the Air & Space Forces Association conference, noting that the specifics of these weapons, including their capabilities and number, remain classified.
Meink emphasized the importance of maintaining U.S. dominance in both air and space, stating that the existence of these weapons serves as a deterrent against hostile actions. The U.S. is developing the “Golden Dome” missile defense system, intended to intercept threats from space, with plans for it to be operational by 2028.
China reacted strongly, with officials calling for the cessation of an arms race in space and advocating for its peaceful use. Meanwhile, both Russia and China have been taking steps to militarize space, which is a growing concern for the United States.
The 1967 Outer Space Treaty prohibits nuclear weapons in orbit but allows for conventional arms, leading to increasing scrutiny and tension over military activities in outer space. The Pentagon and the U.S. Space Force have not yet provided additional comments on this issue.
