In recent news, both the United States of America and the United Kingdom have pointed fingers at Russia for performing a space-based anti-satellite weapon test. This article explores the claims and responses from all involved parties.
The USA’s case against Russia
According to the United States, the weapon test involved Russia’s satellite, Cosmos 2543, ejecting an object into orbit. Alarmingly, Cosmos 2543 was detected operating in unusually close proximity to a government satellite of the United States located in low-earth orbit (LEO). It was reported that the satellite subsequently shifted its direction towards another Russian satellite, contradicting its intended role as an inspector system.
The United States views this test as clear evidence of Russia’s ongoing efforts to develop and test space-based systems. These systems are believed to have the potential to compromise the United States’ weapons. The issue will be brought up during the discussions for the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START), a treaty between the United States and the Russian Federation designed to further reduce and limit strategic offensive arms.
In reaction to these threats, the United States established its Space Force in December 2019, dedicated to protecting its satellites.
Russia’s response to the accusations
Contrarily, Russia’s defence ministry has insisted that Cosmos-2543 is merely an inspector satellite. Their argument is that it is meant to assess the condition of Russian satellites. Further, they explained that Cosmos-2543 was deployed from another satellite, Cosmos-2542, which was launched by the Russian military on 25th November 2019.
Russia maintains that it abides by its obligations regarding the non-discriminatory use and study of space for peaceful aims. They urged the United States and the United Kingdom to remain professional and abstain from propagandic information attacks.
Anti-Satellite Capability
So far, only four countries, namely Russia, the USA, China, and India, have flaunted an anti-satellite capability. Notably, India became the fourth country to gain this ability after successfully completing the Mission Shakti in March 2019. They tested an Anti-Satellite System (A-SAT), a missile-built system designed to target moving satellites. Indian company, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), developed the system independently and defused a live satellite in the LEO.
International Regulation of Outer Space Activities
Several international treaties provide guidelines for outer space activities. The United Nations Outer Space Treaty of 1967 bars nations from deploying weapons of mass destruction in outer space but it does not explicitly ban ordinary ones. India ratified this treaty in 1982.
Additionally, the United Nations Transparency and Confidence Building Measures (TCBMs) exist. These measures involve registering space objects with the UN register and pre-launch notifications. India cooperates by sharing these details with the UN.
The Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC) is another important entity. This is the global governmental forum that coordinates activities regarding man-made and natural debris in space.
India has also expressed support for the UN resolution on No First Placement of Weapons in Outer Space, further emphasizing its commitment to responsible space exploration.
