The findings describe a so-called “zone-effect” weapon that would flood Starlink orbits with hundreds of thousands of dense pellets. These pellets could disable multiple satellites at once but risk severe collateral damage to other space systems.
Analysts not briefed on the findings question whether such a weapon could be used without creating uncontrollable chaos in orbit. They warn that Russia and its ally China depend heavily on satellites for communications, defence and other critical functions.
Those risks could deter Moscow from deploying or using the system, analysts said. “I don’t buy it. Like, I really don’t,” said Victoria Samson, a space-security specialist at the Secure World Foundation, adding she would be “very surprised, frankly, if they were to do something like that.”
Canadian military officials say the possibility cannot be dismissed. “I can’t say I’ve been briefed on that type of system. But it’s not implausible,” said Brig. Gen. Christopher Horner, commander of Canada’s Space Division.
The intelligence was shown to the AP on condition the services involved were not named, and its conclusions could not be independently verified. France’s Space Command said it could not comment but noted that “Russia has, in recent years, been multiplying irresponsible, dangerous, and even hostile actions in space.”
The findings say Russia views Starlink as a serious threat because the network has been vital to Ukraine’s military and civilian communications. Russian officials have repeatedly warned that commercial satellites supporting Ukraine could be legitimate targets.
Unlike a missile test Russia carried out in 2021, the new concept would target many satellites simultaneously, possibly using pellets released from small satellites yet to be launched. Horner said debris from such an attack could get “out of control in a hurry” and blanket entire orbital zones.
The report does not say when the system might be deployed or whether it has been tested. An official familiar with the intelligence said it is in active development but that details on timing are too sensitive to share.
Samson said the work could be experimental or even aimed at shaping international responses. Using such a weapon, she said, “would effectively cut off space for them as well,” adding, “I don’t know that they would be willing to give up that much.”
Source: military.com.
