Russia’s S-500 Could Counter US Weapons Deployed in Orbit

Russia’s S-500 Seen as Answer to US Orbital Weapons

07:58 15-09-2026

Russia’s S-500 can counter US orbital weapons, expert Yuri Knutov says, as Washington develops Golden Dome with space-based laser systems and guns.

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Russia’s S-500 air defense system can be used against US weapons deployed in orbit, according to military expert and air defense historian Yuri Knutov.

He said Russia has already demonstrated anti-satellite capabilities, pointing to the S-500 system, which, according to him, successfully struck an old Soviet satellite. Details about the current state of Russian laser weapons and space-to-space missiles remain classified, although Knutov noted that similar projects were developed during the Soviet era.

The rivalry also extends to inspector satellites operated by both Russia and the United States. These spacecraft are used to determine the actual purpose of objects in orbit. If a threat emerges, they can disable another satellite, including by deliberately colliding with it.

Meanwhile, Washington is preparing to develop its Golden Dome missile and air defense system. Knutov said the project is expected to include combat lasers and electromagnetic guns deployed in space. He also pointed to the recent US presentation of a 300-kilowatt combat laser.

Earlier, Russia’s Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Geneva, Gennady Gatilov, said the Golden Dome would have offensive as well as defensive capabilities. The system is also expected to track ballistic missile launches.