Introduction:

The militarisation of space involves using space for military support, while weaponisation involves deploying capabilities to attack or disrupt space assets. Growing counter-space capabilities are blurring this distinction.

Emerging trends:

• ASAT weapons: Direct-ascent systems capable of destroying satellites.
• Co-orbital weapons: Satellites capable of close approach, interference or disabling other satellites.
• Electronic warfare: Jamming and spoofing of satellite signals.
• Directed-energy weapons: Lasers to degrade satellite sensors.
• Space-based missile defence: Emerging orbital interception capabilities.

Challenges:

• Orbital debris & Kessler Syndrome from destructive ASAT tests.
• Escalation risks due to difficulty distinguishing accidents from attacks.
• Civilian disruption of GPS, communications, banking, weather and disaster management.
• Dual-use dilemma as servicing and rendezvous technologies can have military applications.
• Legal gaps: The 1967 Outer Space Treaty prohibits WMDs in orbit but does not comprehensively ban conventional space weapons.

Way Forward

• Global ban/moratorium on debris-generating ASAT tests.
• Strengthen UN-led norms for responsible space behaviour.
• Improve Space Situational Awareness and data sharing.
• Negotiate binding rules on co-orbital and other counter-space weapons.
• Build resilient, distributed satellite constellations.

Conclusion

Outer space must remain a secure and sustainable global commons. Rules, transparency and responsible behaviour are essential to prevent an arms race while protecting legitimate security interests.