Moscow: A nuclear bomb in space might seem like a strange story even for a James Bond movie. But, real life can sometimes overtake imagination. Especially when it comes to Russia and the atomic bomb. According to US officials, Russia is developing a new type of nuclear weapon. It has been specially designed to attack enemy satellites. After launch, it may remain in space for some time, which could be weeks, months or even years.
What will happen if a nuclear bomb explodes in space?
If this new Russian weapon is detonated, it will destroy the satellites in the orbit closest to the Earth. Due to this, most of the satellites near the Earth will be destroyed. This concept may seem strange, but it is not difficult for Russia. At present Russia is becoming weak and it is also understanding it very well. Its war against Ukraine, which started two weeks ago, has reached its 31st month.
Why is Russia developing space nuclear weapons?
To compensate, Russia has long been seeking the ability to attack the satellites on which the US military depends. For much of the post-Cold War period, its interest focused on non-nuclear antisatellite weapons. However, the US is trying to spy on them by deploying thousands of small satellites for military purposes. Ukraine demonstrated this through its use of Starlink, which was not developed for military purposes. In response, Russia has revived its interest in nuclear-armed antisatellite weapons.
Why is space nuclear bomb necessary for Putin?
Russian President Vladimir Putin would likely consider detonating nuclear bombs in space risky in any conflict. But, they may find them significantly less risky than the alternatives. Of course, a space nuclear bomb would destroy many satellites in addition to those being used by the US and its allies to fight Russia. Chinese and Indian military satellites as well as many civilian satellites will also be destroyed. Furthermore, mass destruction of satellites would cause unimaginable disruption to the lives of people on Earth. But, for Putin, these consequences may seem much less costly than losing the war to the US.
What is the danger from space based nuclear bombs?
The danger of space-based nuclear weapons is not just that Russia might actually use them. It’s also that the US knows that Russia could really use them. As a result, the US could attack Putin’s space nuclear weapons before he could press the button. In such a situation, it is possible that such a possibility could encourage Putin to order a nuclear strike as soon as possible.