Acknowledges for the first time that it has deployed weapons in space

The U.S. confirmed for the first time that it has deployed space weapons, with Air Force Secretary Troy Meink saying they are “on-orbit space control weapons” able to defend the Joint Force against hostile actions. Meink did not specify the systems’ targets or how they operate. The disclosure follows earlier U.S. warnings about Russia developing a space-based anti-satellite capability, and comes amid long-running concerns involving Russia and China, especially since much U.S. infrastructure depends on satellite communications. The U.S. has also demonstrated satellite intercept ability from Earth. Meink added that the Air Force plans more autonomous systems and expects a “radically different” service by 2032. The revelation coincides with increased Trump administration space focus, including the “Golden Dome” missile defense plan, with projected costs up to $542 billion for space components over 20 years.