The US has made efforts to prevent Russia from developing a nuclear space strike capability, fearing that such a weapon could emit an energy wave capable of crippling both commercial and government satellites, essential for mobile communications and internet services.
US intelligence chiefs warned in February that Russia might plan to deploy nuclear weapons in space, posing a “grave” threat to global security.
Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder stated, “Russia launched a satellite into low Earth orbit that we assess is likely a counter-space weapon. We will continue to monitor the situation… we have a responsibility to be ready to protect and defend the space domain and ensure continuous and uninterrupted support to the joint and combined force.”
