#analysis
The U.S. Space Force is accelerating efforts to counter threats from anti-satellite weapons (ASATs) posed by adversaries like Russia and China, focusing on modernizing its Space Surveillance Network (SSN) and developing advanced defense systems. Efforts include deploying hundreds of smaller, cost-effective satellites in low-Earth orbit to enhance resilience and tracking, while new systems like the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) aim to bolster deep-space monitoring. Partnerships with private industry are being expanded to integrate commercial satellite capabilities into military networks, leveraging innovation for defense. Challenges remain, including outdated infrastructure, funding constraints, and the growing complexity of space threats, such as nuclear ASATs and laser-based systems. Experts and officials emphasize the urgency of addressing these vulnerabilities to protect critical global systems like communication, navigation, and banking, which rely heavily on space-based assets.