House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Turner, R-Ohio, has revealed alarming information about Russia’s plans to deploy nuclear weapons in space, accusing President Biden’s administration of being “sleepwalking” on the issue. Turner, in a letter to all members of Congress, warned of the “grave and imminent threat” posed by Russia’s “orbital nuclear weapons system,” expected to be operational as soon as 2025.
As reported by Fox News on Sunday, February 18, 2024, Turner urged President Biden to declassify information about the threat and take immediate action to counter it. He expressed concern that the White House had been “sleepwalking into an international crisis” and called for transparency in addressing the issue.
Turner revealed that he had met with national security adviser Jake Sullivan, who outlined a plan to address the threat. However, Turner’s public disclosure of the information prompted surprise from Sullivan, who mentioned that a meeting with Turner and other congressional members had already been scheduled.
The Russian nuclear weapons system, codenamed “Revenant,” reportedly includes a nuclear-powered spacecraft capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads and maneuvering in orbit to evade detection. The system poses a potential threat to U.S. military satellites, space-based infrastructure, and the ability to launch nuclear strikes on Earth.
While Russia has not officially confirmed the existence of the system, it has indicated the development of “new types of weapons” in response to U.S. missile defense and space activities.
Turner emphasized the need for the U.S. to “deter and defend” against the Russian threat, calling for increased investment in space capabilities and missile defense. He warned of the possibility of a “new arms race” in space if swift action is not taken.
“This is a game-changer,” Turner stated, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the situation to prevent potential repercussions. The revelation highlights growing concerns about the militarization of space and the need for international cooperation to ensure the security of space-based assets.
