Orbit Under Fire: Counterspace Capabilities Proliferate

Space security has transitioned from a niche arms-control topic to a primary policy focus. This shift is driven by growing reliance on satellites and the proliferation of technologies capable of disrupting them. A recent report categorizes these counterspace capabilities into direct-ascent weapons, co-orbital systems, electronic warfare, directed-energy systems, and cyber warfare.

The use of offensive counterspace capabilities carries significant risks, including the loss of essential services and the creation of long-lasting debris fields in orbit. Over the past decade, governments have become increasingly concerned about their dependence on vulnerable space infrastructure and the spread of disruptive technologies.