Russia is developing a weapon designed to attack the Starlink satellite network, according to intelligence assessments shared by two Nato member states. The system under development would use clouds of metallic pellets released in orbit to disable multiple satellites simultaneously, raising fears of a new phase in the militarisation of space.
The information, reported on December 22, 2025, suggests Moscow is exploring ways to undermine satellite constellations that have become critical to modern military operations and civilian infrastructure. Western officials warn that even experimental progress in this area could have far-reaching strategic consequences.
Pellet cloud concept raises detection concerns
According to intelligence cited by the Associated Press, the proposed weapon would disperse hundreds of thousands of tiny metal granules from satellites, creating zones of high risk in low Earth orbit. The pellets would be small enough to evade most existing space-monitoring systems, making an attack difficult to detect until satellites begin to fail.
Such a capability would complicate attribution, limiting the ability of affected states to respond quickly or hold an attacker accountable. Security analysts say this ambiguity fits established patterns of hybrid pressure, allowing Russia to exert influence while maintaining a degree of deniability.
Risk of uncontrollable orbital damage
Experts caution that deploying such a system could trigger widespread and uncontrollable disruption in space. Once released, the granules would pose a threat not only to intended targets but also to thousands of satellites operated by other countries and private companies, including Russian and Chinese systems.
Analysts argue that the indiscriminate nature of the weapon makes its practical use highly risky. Even so, the mere prospect of its existence is seen as a tool of intimidation, capable of shaping strategic calculations without a single launch.
Diverging assessments among space security experts
Some specialists question whether the concept can be made operational without catastrophic side effects. Victoria Samson, a space security expert at the Secure World Foundation, has expressed scepticism about the feasibility of such a weapon, citing the technical and political risks involved.
Others take a more cautious view. Canada’s commander of space forces, Brigadier General Christopher Horner, has said the idea cannot be dismissed outright, pointing to earlier allegations that Russia has explored nuclear capabilities in space. Intelligence officials say the system remains in active development, though its maturity is unclear.
Starlink seen by Moscow as a strategic threat
Moscow has repeatedly criticised Starlink, arguing that commercial satellites supporting Ukraine’s armed forces have become legitimate military targets. The low-orbit network has played a crucial role in battlefield communications, targeting and resilience during disruptions caused by Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure.
Russian officials have warned that such systems blur the line between civilian and military assets, a stance that has alarmed Western governments concerned about precedent and escalation beyond the conflict in Ukraine.
Nato reviews space defence posture
Even if the project never results in a deployable weapon, Western officials say the disclosures are already having an impact. Nato members are reassessing their space security strategies, including investments in monitoring, resilience and countermeasures designed to protect orbital systems.
Britain, Canada and other allies have signalled readiness to respond collectively to hostile actions in space, including through diplomatic pressure, sanctions and technological safeguards. The episode underscores a broader shift, with space increasingly viewed as a contested domain rather than a neutral environment for communication and research.
