Key facts
- The U.S. has deployed on-orbit space control weapons, according to the U.S. Space Force.
- This is the first time a country has admitted to deploying weapons in space.
- Gen. Stephen Whiting called for weapon systems and orbital interceptors in space.
- The placement of weapons in space could violate the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, which designates space for peaceful use.
- The U.S. created the Space Force during Donald Trump's first term.
The U.S. Space Force announced on September 14 that it possesses on-orbit space control weapons capable of defending against hostile adversary actions. This marks the first time a nation has publicly admitted to deploying such capabilities.
General Stephen Whiting, head of U.S. Space Command, has also advocated for weapon systems in space, stating the need for orbital interceptors to deter conflict and ensure success in potential space warfare. While military use of space for surveillance and communication is common, the actual placement of weapons in orbit would cross a significant line.