US Deploys Space Weapons, Sparking Fears of Arms Race with China and Russia
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Policies of other countries affecting India· Prelims + Mains·
Space weaponization and orbital security: a key GS2 International Relations and Sci-Tech topic.
Why in news
US Air Force Secretary Troy Meink revealed the deployment of space weapons for defense, confirming a burgeoning space arms race with China and Russia.
Background
The US deployment includes counterspace weapons such as jammers and kinetic systems. China and Russia are identified as having substantial counterspace programs, while India demonstrated ASAT capability in 2019.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TKinetic systems and jammers are identified as specific types of US counterspace weapons.
- FactIndia demonstrated its ASAT (Anti-Satellite) capability in 2019.
Prelims practice question
With reference to India's space capabilities and strategy, consider the following statements:
- The US has deployed only jammers as counterspace weapons.
- Space situational awareness is the secondary focus of India's space strategy.
- India demonstrated its Anti-Satellite (ASAT) capability in 2019.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)2 only
- (c)3 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 3 only — Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The US has deployed both jammers and kinetic systems. Statement 2 is incorrect: It is the current primary focus of India's space strategy.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the implications of the escalating space arms race on global security and the importance of establishing international norms for space weaponization.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Orbital debris risk: Kinetic weapons increase the probability of Kessler Syndrome, threatening long-term satellite sustainability.
- Strategic instability: Lack of transparency in counterspace capabilities may lead to preemptive strikes and rapid escalation.
- Regulatory vacuum: Absence of a binding international treaty specifically prohibiting space-based weaponry.
Keywords: Space weaponization · Kessler Syndrome · Strategic stability · Space situational awareness · Counterspace capabilities
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