On the Threshold of Space Warfare

ABSTRACT Space hybrid operations possess considerable residual offensive capabilities for waging space warfare. Adequate utilization of space hybrid operations may surpass the disadvantages of kinetic anti-satellite weapons related to the proliferation of space debris and keep a wide array of impacts with flexible outcomes. Moreover, the significance of space hybrid operations is underlined by the renewed geopolitical competition and rivalry that spills over from the traditional states as key actors of conflict to non-state space actors influenced by international disputes. Non-state actors, especially the commercial sector, are then dragged into the geopolitical conflict with a twofold role since their space assets constitute valuable targets, and given the dual-use nature of space systems, may directly or non-directly support space militarization and even weaponization. As such, state and non-state actors must closely cooperate and create mutually beneficial relations that will ensure the protection of space assets and the building of resilient space infrastructures.