Space weapons

Abstract

Ballistic missile defence (BMD) weapons have much in common with offensive antisatellite (ASAT) weapons. This article reviews the types of space weapons currently under research with descriptions of both BMD and ASAT weapons, and their common areas are indicated. The most important issue is seen as the problems raised by the dual nature of such systems, particularly from the point of view of controlling such offensive and defensive weapons. The article also reviews the question of whether development and eventual deployment of some space weapons may jeopardize existing arms control agreements and complicate any ASAT treaty negotiations.