Abstract
During recent years it has become apparent that space is an important theater for the military activities and aspirations of the great powers. The scenarios of war in space have moved from the field of pure science fiction-oriented speculations to become part of arms race and arms control discussions.
It has been estimated that some 75% of all satellites orbiting earth are performing mainly military tasks such as surveillance, early-warning, communications and navigation. The military importance of satellites has in turn inspired military planners to develop anti-satellite systems. And the feasibility of various space- based weapon systems to be used against targets on the ground or against attacking strategic missiles has from time to time been studied in defence departments. These developments have implications not only for the use of space as such but also for the strategic balance between the leading great powers.
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