Russia launched spacecraft linked to ASAT program, reveal US officials

US officials have disclosed that Russia launched a research spacecraft Cosmos-2553 two years ago to test components for an anti-satellite weapon (ASAT) that could be armed with a nuclear payload, reports the Wall Street Journal.

While Russia claims its launch was for scientific research, the satellite’s unusual orbit and radiation exposure raise suspicions about its true purpose.

American officials believe it’s linked to an ASAT program specifically designed to target and destroy satellites in space using nuclear explosives.

The program is a growing concern for the Pentagon.

In February, US National Security spokesperson John Kirby confirmed that Russia possesses a “troubling” ASAT that had not been deployed yet. But he reassured that it cannot directly cause “physical destruction” on Earth.

As of April, nearly 6,700 American satellites operated in low-Earth orbit. They are critical for communication and military operations. China and Russia have also deployed hundreds.