Options for AFGSC in Response to the Next Potential "Cuban Missile Crisis" in Space

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  • By 7 BW

The 1967 Outer Space Treaty bars signatories from placing "in orbit around the Earth any objects carrying nuclear weapons or any other kinds of weapons of mass destruction." In recent months, reports have been made public that the United States believes Russia is developing a space-based anti-satellite nuclear weapon. The detonation of a nuclear weapon in space has the potential to disrupt not only military capabilities, but also commercial services all over the world. What actions should AFGSC be prepared for in the case that Russia rescinds themselves from the 1967 treaty and deploys these weapons in space? What can AFGSC do to proactively deter Russia from doing this? In the event that deterrence fails, are there any new assurances to allies that AFGSC is uniquely positioned to provide? Potential options might include fielding new capabilities, the declassification of current programs, and force posture adjustments.