As a first in NATO history, it took action to determine its strategy in space. NATO’s defense ministers are preparing to sign a framework document against the steps taken by countries such as China and Russia in the space field.
“Space can be used as part of our daily lives for peaceful purposes as well as aggression,” said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. Stoltenberg pointed out that the satellites can be hacked and turned into weapons.
According to DW, NATO’s new policy will serve as a framework for addressing controversial issues related to space and how to respond to these situations. The Alliance’s goal is to make space operational for NATO, such as seas, air and cyber platforms.
NATO had tried to produce a similar document in 2011 and 2012, which was not successful. However, authorities now point out that space has become a more competitive and controversial issue.
Will Article 5 be operated for space?
NATO includes countries traveling to space. NATO will use resources from these countries at this point. NATO source, which provides information on the subject, said: “NATO will not buy and operate satellite. We will be based on the space services provided by the Allies.” However, in the long term, a space system operated by NATO can be developed.
The focus of NATO’s largest debate on space work is the 5th article in the alliance’s agreement. This article calls for an attack on any member of the alliance to be considered an attack on the alliance. Stoltenberg says it is too early to discuss how this matter is applied to space.
Why is NATO interested in space?
There are 2,000 active satellites and half a million pieces of debris in orbit around the world. Of these, 30,000 to 40,000 are thought to be capable of damaging satellites. There is currently no weapon in orbit around the world. However, the NATO official, who provided information on the issue, says that the aggressive attitude of China and Russia has raised concerns.
The US, Russia and China are capable of hitting the satellites belonging to enemy countries with missiles all over the world. It is also stated that these countries may be developing laser technology to neutralize satellites.
In the United States, President Donald Trump has ordered the creation of a space force belonging to his country. The US Space Force, which has not yet received approval from the US Congress, will be composed of 20,000 personnel. Space strength, land, air and naval forces will be the same level.
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