Western Intelligence Warns Russia May Be Developing Weapon to Target Starlink Satellites

Western intelligence agencies from two NATO member states suspect that Russia may be developing a new type of anti-satellite weapon designed to disrupt Starlink, the satellite network owned by Elon Musk, according to intelligence findings reviewed by the Associated Press.

The suspected system, described as a so-called “zone-effect” weapon, would allegedly deploy vast clouds of tiny, high-density pellets into low-Earth orbit. The pellets could potentially damage or disable multiple satellites simultaneously, particularly those operating within Starlink’s orbital range.

While the findings have not been independently verified, intelligence officials believe the weapon is intended to counter the growing military and communications advantage that Western satellite networks—especially Starlink—have provided to Ukraine during Russia’s ongoing invasion.

Concerns Over Space Debris and Collateral Damage

Experts caution that deploying such a weapon could cause severe and uncontrollable space debris, threatening not only Western satellites but also Russian and Chinese systems that rely on similar orbital paths.

“This would blanket an entire orbital regime,” said Christopher Horner, commander of Canada’s military Space Division. “It wouldn’t just affect Starlink—it would threaten everything in that orbital band.”

Analysts warn that debris clouds could remain in orbit for years, damaging solar panels and vital systems on satellites belonging to multiple countries, including those of Russia and its ally China.

Skepticism Among Space Security Experts

Some space-security specialists have expressed doubts about whether Russia would deploy such a weapon due to the self-inflicted risks involved.

“I would be very surprised if they actually used something like this,” said Victoria Samson of the Secure World Foundation. “It would effectively cut off space access for everyone—including Russia.”

Samson suggested the concept may still be experimental or even theoretical, possibly designed to signal deterrence rather than be operationally deployed.

Why Starlink Is Seen as a Target

Starlink’s thousands of low-orbit satellites have played a critical role in Ukraine’s war effort, supporting battlefield communications, drone operations, and civilian connectivity after Russian strikes on infrastructure.

Russian officials have repeatedly warned that commercial satellites assisting Ukraine could be considered legitimate military targets. Earlier this month, Moscow also announced the deployment of the S-500 missile system, which it claims is capable of striking low-orbit targets.

Weapon of Deterrence or Psychological Pressure?

According to intelligence officials familiar with the findings, there is no clear timeline for deployment, and the system may never move beyond research stages. However, even the existence of such a weapon could serve as a “weapon of fear”, allowing Moscow to exert strategic pressure without actual use.

“If satellites suddenly start failing across an orbital zone, attribution becomes difficult,” said Clayton Swope of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “That uncertainty itself is destabilising.”

Russia Responds

The Kremlin did not respond to requests for comment on the intelligence claims. Russian officials have previously denied intentions to weaponise space and have publicly supported United Nations efforts to prevent the deployment of weapons in orbit.

President Vladimir Putin has also stated that Russia has no plans to deploy nuclear weapons in space.