SWF Staff Call For Discussions on Limiting Antisatellite Testing in Space

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

SWF Washington Office Director Ms. Victoria Samson and Director of Program Planning Dr. Brian Weeden published a new op-ed calling for limitations on anti-satellite (ASAT) testing in space. In the article, they discuss the most recent test of the Russian Nudol ASAT system and the U.S. response, noting that this was the first time the United States has publicly acknowledged a foreign ASAT test so soon after it happened. They note that this was the 10th test of the Nudol system and that the United States, China, and India have all tested or developed similar capabilities in the past. Ms. Samson and Dr. Weeden argue that the United States should change course and take a leadership role in laying the foundation for prohibitions on future testing through both unilateral actions and negotiations with other space powers.