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The United States has acknowledged the deployment of weapons in orbit, a development likely to intensify debate over military activity in space.
Why orbit matters
Le Monde reported the confirmation from the US Space Force amid wider concern about anti-satellite capabilities and growing dependence on satellites for communications, navigation and intelligence.
The diplomatic challenge
The militarization of space raises questions about rules, verification and escalation because orbital infrastructure can support both civilian and military systems.
Source: Le Monde, September 15, 2026.
