ABSTRACT
Military-related activity in outer space is frequently called ‘militarisation’. This chapter focuses on satellite systems used for military purposes and on the means of negating their capabilities. Firstly, it provides general definitions of the key terms to clearly distinguish issues referring to space-based systems and other military activities in space. Secondly, the chapter describes space-borne systems in their current and prospective shape, with particular emphasis on missions that are currently, and will be in future, attributed to space-based systems. The general argument is that satellites play a critical role in today’s military operations and their significance will most likely grow in the future. Furthermore, access to space systems services (imagery, communication, positioning) increases rapidly, enabling many governments and non-state actors to utilise the capabilities that were previously reserved for the greatest world-class powers. Thirdly, the chapter deals with the technologies and strategies designed to negate satellites’ capabilities. Special attention is paid to the current trends in the development of anti-satellite weapons and their possible ramifications for the future of warfare. Finally, the chapter addresses the new trends in the development of space systems which will play the most important part in the future.
