US confirms deployment of space control weapons in Earth's orbit

US Air Force Secretary Troy Meink confirmed the deployment of space control weapons into orbit, marking the first official acknowledgment of operational US orbital weaponry.
US Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink has acknowledged that the US Space Force deployed "space control weapons" into Earth's orbit, marking the first official public confirmation of orbital US weapon systems. Speaking at an industry conference, Meink stated the capability is operational to counter "evolving threats" and protect American assets from potential hostile action. While official details regarding the specific nature or capabilities of the weapons remain classified, the announcement highlights an intensifying military focus on the space domain. The disclosure comes amid growing efforts by global powers, including China and Russia, to expand their space-based military capabilities to secure critical surveillance, navigation, and communications satellites.
Sources: Breaking Defense, France24, BBC News.
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- Sep 15, 2026, 02:30 PM UTCUS Space Force confirms deployment of orbital space weapons for first time