‘Satellite killers beware’: Fast and lethal rockets could secure American assets in space
Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Orbital Defense
An ambitious proposal suggests Centaur rockets could act as “space interceptors,” defending satellites against threats—a groundbreaking concept in space security by ULA CEO Tory Bruno.
Killer Satellites
Tory Bruno warns of “satellite killers,” adversarial devices designed to disable U.S. Space Force assets, emphasizing the urgency for fast, maneuverable space defense systems.
Lightning Interceptors
Bruno envisions orbital “destroyers” capable of reaching threats within hours, contrasting current satellites that require days or weeks to maneuver into position.
Space Greyhounds
Drawing a naval analogy, Bruno calls for “Greyhounds of Space,” fast and lethal interceptors equipped to patrol orbits and neutralize hostile threats with precision.
Debris Challenge
Space defense isn’t just about stopping threats; it’s also about avoiding dangerous debris fields, which could linger for centuries, jeopardizing shared orbital environments.
Shared Space
Bruno highlights space as a common domain with no borders, stressing the importance of responsible defense strategies that preserve orbital safety for all nations.
Force Evolution
Brig. Gen. Anthony Mastalir underscores the Space Force’s transformation into a cornerstone of U.S. defense, ready to tackle the increasingly contested nature of space.
First Test
The Vulcan Centaur rocket prepares for its inaugural Space Force mission in late 2024, marking a pivotal moment in combining security and technological advancement.
Competitive Edge
If the Centaur upper stage evolves into a long-duration orbital defense asset, ULA could secure a leading role in the competitive landscape of spaceflight innovation.