US Confirms Space Weapons, Issues Warning to China and Russia

Washington has officially confirmed the deployment of weapons in space for the first time, according to U.S. media reports. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink framed the announcement as a warning to China and Russia, stating the weapons are necessary to protect U.S. forces from "evolving threats."

Meink stated during a conference in Maryland that the United States is prepared to address evolving threats wherever they may occur. He clarified that the U.S. now possesses space control weapons stationed in orbit, capable of defending American armed forces against hostile actions.

While details regarding the specific weapons or their deployment timeline were not disclosed, Meink emphasized their role in "deterrence." Unnamed government officials cited by The Washington Post suggested that the U.S. military may possess the capability to destroy adversary satellites if they target American troops or assets.

The announcement brings the U.S. Space Force, established in 2019, into focus. Its mission is to safeguard U.S. interests in space, considered critical for national security. The Space Force identifies China and Russia as threats due to their expanding military capabilities in space. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged the U.S. to cease space armament.