Russia’s Advancement in Space Raises Concerns About National Security

House Intelligence Committee Warns of Serious Threat

A warning issued by the chair of the House Intelligence Committee regarding a "serious national security threat" is believed to be related to Russia's activities in space, according to sources familiar with the matter. While specific details were not provided, one source mentioned that the intelligence pertains to Moscow's weaponization of its orbital systems.

Call to Declassify Intelligence

Representative Mike Turner (R-Ohio) called on the administration to declassify the intelligence and make it available for discussion with officials and lawmakers. The information has been accessible to leaders of the House intelligence committee and their top aides for over a week. Turner's statement raised questions about the timing, as the intelligence has already been shared with committee members.

Possible Motivation Behind the Warning

There is speculation that Turner's statement aims to draw attention to Russia's advancements in space as a means of emphasizing the need for additional aid to Ukraine. The Senate has already passed a bill that includes $60 billion in aid for Kyiv, which is currently being reviewed by the House.

Concerns About Russia's Activities in Space

The administration has expressed various concerns about Russia's activities in space, including developments with its satellites and its interference with U.S. satellites. Members of the House intelligence committee have described the intelligence as "disturbing" and an "issue," but not an immediate crisis.

National Security Adviser's Response

National security adviser Jake Sullivan expressed surprise at Turner's public warning, stating that he had previously reached out to top congressional leaders for a classified discussion. Sullivan did not confirm whether the requested meeting was related to the same intelligence. Representative Jason Crow (D-Colo.) expects the Biden administration to make the decision on declassifying the intelligence appropriately.

Possible Concerning Capability: Zircon Hypersonic Cruise Missile

One potential capability that has raised concerns is Russia's 3M22 Zircon hypersonic cruise missile. This missile can travel at speeds between Mach 6 and Mach 8 and is designed to strike both land and naval targets. It was deployed on a Russian frigate, the Admiral Golovko, in 2020. Russia has been focusing on hypersonic weapon development following the U.S. withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.

Threat to Satellites in Orbit

U.S. officials have also expressed alarm about Russia's ability to launch missiles from Earth's surface that can destroy satellites in orbit. In 2021, Russia conducted an anti-satellite missile test on one of its own satellites, resulting in the fragmentation of over 1,500 pieces of debris. This poses a significant threat to other objects in orbit.

Strengthening Ties Between Russia and North Korea

The concern over Russia's space capabilities coincides with the strengthening ties between Russia and North Korea. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has announced plans to launch three military spy satellites in 2024. Additionally, Kim met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at Russia's Vostochny spaceport to discuss potential cooperation in space.

In conclusion, Russia's advancements in space have raised concerns about national security. The House Intelligence Committee has issued a warning regarding a serious threat, believed to be related to Russia's weaponization of its orbital systems. The call to declassify the intelligence and the concerns about Russia's activities in space highlight the need for further examination and potential actions to address the situation.—————————————————————————————————————————————
By: Erin Banco, Alexander Ward and Lee Hudson
Title: Russia’s Advancement in Space Raises Concerns About National Security
Sourced From: www.politico.com/news/2024/02/14/house-intel-national-security-threat-russia-space-power-00141473
Published Date: Wed, 14 Feb 2024 15:29:31 EST