China warns US to halt space weapons deployment after first orbital arms rollout

In September 2025, the US Space Force announced it had deployed on-orbit space control weapons capable of defending against hostile adversary action, marking the first known deployment of such weapons in orbit. China's foreign ministry urged the United States to stop expanding its military capabilities and preparing for war in outer space, warning against the weaponisation of space and an arms race. The US Space Force singled out China as a threat, noting Beijing develops and operates space and counterspace capabilities as part of its military modernization, and also named Russia as believing space supremacy will be decisive in future conflicts. This development matters to Nigerians because satellites underpin critical services such as telecommunications, banking, navigation, weather forecasting, and disaster response that Nigeria depends on. An escalation in space militarisation could increase the risk of satellite damage or debris, disrupting these services and affecting everything from mobile networks to aviation safety. Nigeria's own space programme, including NigeriaSat satellites, could also be impacted by heightened tensions. While the 1967 Outer Space Treaty bans weapons of mass destruction in orbit, it does not prohibit conventional weapons, allowing countries to pursue anti-satellite capabilities. Readers should monitor diplomatic efforts for space arms control, consider backup plans for essential satellite-dependent services, and support initiatives that promote peaceful use of space to safeguard global infrastructure.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/09/15/stop-preparing-for-war-in-outer-space-china-urges-us/