According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the Soviet Union has an operational capability to destroy satellites in near Earth orbit by using a type of antisatellite (ASAT) termed a 'killer satellite.' The United States had an operational ASAT system using ground-based missiles, but it was deactivated in 1975; a new ASAT device using miniature homing vehicles launched from F-15 aircraft is now being developed. Both the United States and the Soviet Union are performing research on laser and particle beam weapons which may ultimately have ASAT applications. During 1978 and 1979, the United States and Soviet Union held ASAT limitation talks, but no further talks have been scheduled. In the fall of 1981, the Soviets introduced a draft treaty at the United Nations to ban weapons from space, although it apparently would not include the ground- or air-based systems now in use of development. The Soviets continue to test their ASAT system, and President Reagan has reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to developing an operational ASAT system. Should the United States develop an operational ASAT capability, or should the focus instead be on renewing the stalled ASAT limitation talks, or should there be some combination of the two approaches. If the United States pursues an ASAT system, is the current effort related to air-launched missiles sufficient, or should a ground-based option be pursued. Should research into laser and particle beam weapons be accelerated. In the absence of an ASAT limitation treaty, should the United States place more emphasis on means to ensure the survivability of critical military satellites and their associated ground stations and data links.


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