The US Space Force has confirmed for the first time that the United States has deployed on-orbit space control weapons. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink announced that these weapons are currently circling the globe and are capable of defending the Joint Force against hostile adversary action.
Washington justified the deployment by citing potential threats to US interests in space from its two main geopolitical rivals, Russia and China. In response to the disclosure, Beijing urged Washington to stop preparing for war in outer space.
The announcement comes as the US, China, and Russia expand their military capabilities in space, which has evolved from a Cold War hunting ground into a key strategic arena. The focus has shifted toward controlling the space domain and protecting satellites essential for navigation, surveillance, and military communications.
Analysts warn that the public acknowledgment of American weapons in orbit may accelerate a high-risk arms race with Russia and China. The Pentagon has been preparing for potential conflict in space as states continue to jostle for a military and technological edge.