Relevance for UPSC: GS-II (International Relations), GS-III (Security & Science-Technology) | Source: Western intelligence reports, media analyses

Context

Reports suggest Russia is developing a counter-space weapon to disrupt Starlink, whose satellites provide critical communication support to Ukraine.

What is the Threat? 

  • Likely non-nuclear Anti-satellite (ASAT) method using projectiles/pellet clouds to damage satellites.
  • High risk of space debris, threatening other satellites and orbital safety (Kessler Syndrome).

Why it Matters

  • Militarisation of space: Satellites are now integral to warfare (communication, navigation, surveillance).
  • Dual-use dilemma: Commercial systems serving civilian users also support military operations.
  • Legal gaps: The Outer Space Treaty (1967) bans weapons of mass destruction in space, but does not prohibit conventional ASAT weapons.

Implications for India

  • Underscores need for space situational awareness, satellite resilience and active role in global space governance.
UPSC Value Box 

  • Anti-satellite (ASAT) weapon: A weapon designed to damage, disable or destroy satellites in outer space
  • Kessler Syndrome: A situation where space debris triggers a chain reaction of collisions, making Earth orbits unsafe for satellites
  • Dual-use satellites: Civilian satellite systems that are also used for military communication, navigation or surveillance

International Framework: Outer Space Treaty, 1967 – Prohibits placement of weapons of mass destruction in outer space, but does not prohibit conventional anti-satellite weapons

India: Mission Shakti (2019) demonstrated anti-satellite capability; Defence Space Agency coordinates military space activities

Q. Which of the following best explains the concern associated with anti-satellite weapons?
(a) They violate the Outer Space Treaty by default
(b) They permanently destroy the Earth’s atmosphere
(c) They can generate long-lasting space debris affecting all satellites
(d) They are limited only to nuclear powers

Answer: (c)

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