Is the US Military Preparing for a Next-Generation War in Space Using Sci-Fi Technology?

Is the U.S. ready for a full-blown war in space? Experts say that the US Military considers the prospect and is gearing up for a potential space warfare by developing weapons that could only exist in science fiction dreams.

According to a CNN documentary to be aired on Tuesday titled “War in Space: The Next Battlefield,” there's a high possibility that a massive cyber attack could happen. And if it indeed happens, U.S. satellites could be attacked and destroyed, disabling communication throughout the country.

In an interview with CNN Politics, Gen. John Hyten, head of US Strategic Command, said, "As humans go out there, there has always been conflict. Conflict in the Wild West as we move in the West ... conflict twice in Europe for its horrible world wars. So, every time humans actually physically move into that, there's conflict, and in that case, we'll have to be prepared for that."

But during this space wars, who are the potential adversaries of the U.S.? New York Post notes that these could be Russia and China. To note, Russia has successfully created and deployed Kosmos 2499, kamikaze satellites that are designed to be on standby and destroy US satellites if needed.

Meanwhile, for China, Space.com notes that the country has also deployed "Shiyan" satellites. The said satellites have "a prototype manipulator arm to capture other satellites." This special satellite is set to launch in 2020 aboard China's large space station.

Hayden said that the US government is aware of these new technologies and weaponry that could pose as threats to US satellites, such as the International Space Station.

“We have very good surveillance and intelligence capabilities, so we can see the threats that are being built. So we’re developing capabilities to defend ourselves. It’s really that simple," he said.

Meanwhile, NASA said in a statement that they are not aware of the reports with regard to the development of space weaponry and is solely focused on a peaceful space exploration.

“We are unaware of the report. NASA is dedicated to the peaceful exploration of space, which is a part of the original space act that Congress passed and President Eisenhower signed in 1958," a NASA spokesperson told the New York Post.