23 March 2026 of the year Chief Master Sergeant of the US Space Force Ron Lerch, senior adviser to the deputy chief of space operations on intelligence issues, presented a declassified report on current threats to American space systems at the Satellite conference 2026.
Main threats according to intelligence
Radio electronic warfare (REB): The most growing threat, aimed at disrupting the operation of multi-satellite groups in low Earth orbit (Pleo).
Ground microwave weapons: Lerch mentioned Chinese research into powerful microwave installations to destroy satellites, noting, that such technology is difficult to find a civilian application.
Weapons of direct interception (ASAT): China and Russia have already demonstrated the ability to destroy low-orbit satellites with missiles.
Cyber threats: To counter attempts at enemy cyber attacks during launches, the US Space Force has formed new squadrons of defensive cyber operations.
Dangerous maneuvers in orbit
Intelligence recorded an operation of Chinese satellites of the Shiyan-24 C series, unprecedented in complexity (01, 02, 03), which are from April to December 2024 made numerous approaches to the Shijan-6 05A device at a distance of less than 1 kilometer. Such actions test the readiness of the allies' defenses and the enemy's maneuverability.
Strategic challenges
Nuclear weapons in space: Russia continues to develop capabilities for placing nuclear anti-satellite weapons in orbit.
Quantum threat: Experts warn about the approach “Q-Day” - the moment, when powerful quantum computers will be able to break the modern encryption of space systems, which requires the transition to quantum-resistant technologies to 2035 year.
Coordination of opponents: China, Russia, Iran and North Korea are increasing cooperation in the field of satellite programs, remote sensing and lunar ambitions.
Source: https://spacenews.com