A Russian nuclear explosion in space could block the use of low orbit for a year. Most satellites orbit there

In Congress, Plumb described the consequences of the possible use of nuclear weapons in space. “Several analysts believe that a (nuclear) explosion in space of the right magnitude and location could, for example, render low orbit unusable for some time,” Plumb said, according to Defense One.

The low orbital path reaches a height of 2000 km. Not only space stations with a human crew, such as the ISS, but also most satellites observing the earth, including those for spying, observation or communication, such as the satellites of the Iridium system or the Starlink constellation, move in it.

Rep. Mike Turner wanted to know how long LEO would be unavailable. Plumb therefore asked, “Could it be a year?” To which Plumb replied, “I am convinced it could be (a year).”

Russia is developing a new space nuclear weapon. The information caused an uproar in the US Congress

Foreign

A threat to US satellite systems

Plumb said in a written statement that Russia is trying to limit America’s space capabilities. Its investments in anti-satellite systems are said to be aimed at the Russians taking advantage of what they see as America’s over-reliance on space assets to conduct military operations. This should “offset American advantages”.

Plumb mentioned that Russia has already carried out cyber-attacks against satellite communication systems and has also repeatedly rewritten GPS data. “Russia has shown in public statements and actions that it considers commercial satellites providing services to Russia’s adversaries as potential targets,” the text continues.

The document also warns about the new Russian system: “Russia is also developing a disturbing anti-satellite system associated with a new satellite carrying a nuclear device. This capability could pose a threat to all satellites operated by countries and companies around the world, as well as the vital communications, scientific, commercial, meteorological and national security services (using these satellites) on which we all depend.”

Low Earth orbit is widely used because it requires a less powerful launch vehicle to launch satellites. In the case of communication satellites, it also enables the transmission of data in a wider band and requires less energy for their operation.

Plumb did not specify at what level the Russian satellite should operate, but emphasized that the threat is not immediate.

Putin wants to install a nuclear device in space. It is a Russian priority, he declared

Europe

Russian veto

However, concerns about the deployment of nuclear weapons in space increased after Russia vetoed a Security Council resolution that would have upheld a ban on placing nuclear weapons in space.

Plumb mentioned that the veto could mean that Moscow plans to put nuclear weapons in space. He called Russia “hypocritical and untrustworthy”.

Similarly, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan said last week: “We’ve heard President Putin say publicly that Russia has no intention of deploying nuclear weapons in space. If that were the case, Russia would not have vetoed this resolution.”