Analytical Appraisal of Space Weapons’ Probability: Imminent Detriment to the Multi-Lateral Non-Proliferation Regime and Strategic Stability

Outer Space is likely to be the contesting arena of power projection. In the times to come, the domain of space is being perceived to significantly balance or outbalance regional and global competitors' deterrence and strategic stability equations. Maximum power potential in outer space is rarely discussed. So far, space power projection has solely involved placing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) satellites, along with battlefield communication and precision guidance for strategic weapons like anti-ballistic missiles. However, the physical placement of weapons is yet to materialize. Inactivity is ascribed to scientific and financial challenges, insufficient political and societal resolve, and an implicit accord among advanced spacefaring states. Yet, the advancing technologies in outer space sphere and strategic intents/ thoughts shared by the relevant strategic experts do indicate that the placement of physical space weapons is not a far-fetched option. Although, physical placement might be subject to delay for multiple crisscrossed limitations in strategic, technological and diplomatic terms, yet the super and major powers especially India are heavily investing in building their strategic military capacities for absolute power, if not globally at least in their respective strategic regions of influence. The article in hand is an effort to carry out an objective appraisal of the probability of the outer space getting weaponized by undertaking a detailed literature review of various relevant strategic thinkers from different regions who have opined about space being militarized or weaponized in near times.