The United States has determined that Russia likely launched a counter space weapon into orbit last week, which is now traveling in the same path as a U.S. government satellite, according to Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder. Ryder disclosed this information during a press briefing, noting that the event occurred on May 16. The satellite launched by Russia is believed to be capable of engaging other satellites in low Earth orbit.
A #Russian space weapon is allegedly tracking a #UnitedStates spy satellite in orbit around Earth, amid intensifying concerns over the militarization of space.
Watch here: https://t.co/bNjuzZAsFU pic.twitter.com/ZcPXccyONk
— Hindustan Times (@htTweets) May 22, 2024
Ryder explained that the Russian satellite has been deployed into the same orbit as a U.S. satellite and shows similarities to other counter space weapons that Russia has sent into space in previous years, specifically mentioning similar activities in 2019 and 2022. The implications of such actions are significant as they represent a potential threat to the safety and operational integrity of space-based assets.
The Pentagon is closely monitoring the situation and emphasizes the importance of being prepared to defend U.S. interests in space. Ryder affirmed the United States’ commitment to protecting its space assets, ensuring that they can continue to support military and intelligence operations without interruption. He also stressed the importance of maintaining a stable and sustainable environment in outer space, balancing defensive needs with broader strategic stability considerations.
🛰️ The US has assessed that Russia launched a 'Counter Space Weapon' on May 16th that is capable of attacking a US government satellite which is orbiting nearby. pic.twitter.com/zPIVpgmdOe
— MenchOsint (@MenchOsint) May 21, 2024
In response to inquiries about whether this satellite posed a direct threat to the U.S. government satellite it shares an orbit with, Ryder acknowledged the inherent risks associated with the proximity of a counter space weapon to a U.S. satellite.
While Ryder did not comment on whether the U.S. had prior knowledge of the weapon’s deployment during the satellite’s launch, the protocol for such operations typically requires notifications similar to those for air and sea movements, suggesting that the launch was unexpected.
Following Ryder’s remarks, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov addressed the situation, labeling the Pentagon’s announcement as part of an “information leak” and downplaying the strategic significance. Ryabkov reiterated that the Russian space program is progressing as planned, with launches serving various purposes, including those aimed at enhancing Russia’s defense capabilities.
Russia launched an anti-satellite space weapon, US claims https://t.co/w045ZEtiLd pic.twitter.com/TvWKNC46rw
— New York Post (@nypost) May 22, 2024
This development underscores the ongoing complexities and challenges in space security and the delicate balance between national defense initiatives and the need to prevent an arms race in outer space. As both nations continue to advance their aerospace technologies, the international community remains vigilant about the potential for conflict and the need for transparent and cooperative space governance.
Major Points
- The U.S. has determined that Russia likely launched a counter space weapon into orbit, now traveling in the same path as a U.S. government satellite.
- Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder revealed the launch occurred on May 16 and noted similarities to past Russian space weapons.
- The Russian satellite is capable of attacking other satellites, posing a potential threat to U.S. space assets.
- The Pentagon is monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need to protect U.S. interests and maintain a stable space environment.
- Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov dismissed concerns, asserting the Russian space program is proceeding as intended, focusing on defense capabilities.
D.J. Antoni – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
