Russisch ruimtewapen baart VS zorgen infographic
Graphic illustrates principle of a space-based nuclear weapon.
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RUIMTE

VS ongerust over Russisch ruimtekernwapen

By Ninian Carter

February 15, 2024 - The United States fears Russia is developing a space-based nuclear weapon capable of wiping out its satellite network, which the U.S. has no ability to counter.

The U.S. has informed Congress and its allies of intelligence reports that suggest Russian is making advances on a new space nuclear weapon, designed to knock out an enemy country’s satellite network.

Such a device, if deployed, could destroy civilian communications, space-based surveillance and military command-and control operations.

Currently the U.S. does not have the means to counter such a weapon or defend its satellites from an attack of this type.

If the intelligence reports are correct, it throws into doubt Russia’s willingness to keep to the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which bans all orbital nuclear weapons, and could kick-start a new space weapons arms race.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 16/02/2024; STORY: Graphic News; PICTURES: Getty Images
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