US deploys on-orbit space weapons amid China criticism

Key developments

1. Sep 17, 2026

   China condemned the United States for deploying on-orbit space weapons, urging Washington to halt preparations for space warfare.

   135 sources on this →
2. Sep 17, 2026

   The Space Force has deployed on-orbit space control weapons to defend U.S. forces and preserve space superiority.

   257 sources on this →

Coverage across the spectrum

Stories in this storyline

World

US Acknowledges On-Orbit Space-Control Weapons

The Space Force has deployed on-orbit space control weapons to defend U.S. forces and preserve space superiority, with Air Force Secretary Troy Meink publicly confirming their existence though no technical details were released. The announcements across conferences indicate ongoing development of both kinetic and non-kinetic space capabilities, including potential orbital strike and space-link interdiction, while the specifics remain classified and the broader strategic implications are debated.

257 sources

World

US Acknowledges Undisclosed On-Orbit Weapons

China condemned the United States for deploying on‑orbit space weapons, urging Washington to halt preparations for space warfare and to uphold global strategic stability. Beijing reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful space use and warned against weaponising outer space or triggering an arms race, a view echoed as the US, and its allies, pursue space security capabilities.