Weaponization of space

Published on 06 Feb 2025

The Weaponization of space refers to development and deployment of weapon systems in outer space. It is the next level of militarisation where space becomes the new frontier of war.

Issues associated with space weaponization

• Arms race and escalation: Development of military capability in space could heighten the sense of insecurity among nations and lead to an arms race.

• Risk of space debris: Weapon test and anti-satellite test generates space debris which poses risk to operational satellites. And also possible collision cascading (Kessler Syndrome).

• Example: In 2019, an Indian anti-satellite missile test created debris that posed a potential collision risk to the ISS. 

• Threat to space assets: Military assets increase the risk of unintentional collisions at crucial satellite systems that support communication, navigation and surveillance.

• Lack of clear rules: The absence of clear rules and norms governing space militarization can lead to uncertainty, misunderstandings, and the potential for conflict.

• Economic impact: Diversion of resources away from peaceful space exploration, research, thus impacting the potential benefits of space technology.

Efforts to address space weaponization

• Outer Space Treaty, 1967: Prohibits the placement of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction in outer space, thus using the region only for peaceful purposes.

• Code of Conduct for Outer Space activities: Proposed by the European Union (EU), this voluntary code aims to promote responsible behaviour in space activities and ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space.

• Space Security Index: A project that assesses trends, developments, and risks related to space security and offers recommendations for enhancing the security.

• Conference on Disarmament Discussions: A UN body, periodically discusses space-related security issues, including the prevention of an arms race in outer space.

India & Weaponization of space

• Mission Shakti: India successfully conducted an Anti-Satellite missile test, becoming the fourth nation in the world to have the capability to shoot down satellites in orbit.

• IndSpaceEx: India’s first simulated space warfare exercise to assess the requisite space and counter space capability needed by India.

• Mission DefSpace: To develop innovative solutions for the three services in the space domain.

• Commitment to non-weaponization: India being a signatory to the Outer Space Treaty has consistently expressed its commitment to the peaceful use of outer space.

• International engagement: India also actively participates in UN discussions and initiatives to address space security concerns.

• Space debris mitigation: ISRO follows the best practices for space debris mitigation to minimize the generation of space debris and to reduce collision risks.

• Space diplomacy: The country's diplomatic engagements aim to foster international collaboration, prevent conflicts, and address space security challenges.

Tags:
Security

Keywords:
Internal security Security Weaponization of space Outer Space Treaty Mission Shakti space debris

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 3

Topics:
Cybersecurity