The U.S. has deployed its first publicly acknowledged space-based weapon, Air Force Secretary Troy Meink said, marking the first time Washington has confirmed an offensive capability in orbit.

Intelligence summary

The U.S. has deployed its first publicly acknowledged space-based weapon, Air Force Secretary Troy Meink said, marking the first time Washington has confirmed an offensive capability in orbit. Meink said the weapon is already “on orbit” and is intended for “space control” and to defend U.S. forces against “hostile adversary action.” A U.S. official said the capability could potentially be used to disable or destroy an enemy satellite targeting U.S. troops or satellites. Source: WaPo