Russia is about to put a nuclear weapon in space: reports

satellite in sapce
Photo credit Getty Images

Russia is apparently planning to take the future of warfare to new heights, by stationing nuclear weapons in space.

According to NBC News, which cited three anonymous sources familiar with the matter, Russia is developing a nuclear space-based weapon that it wouldn't use to drop on earth but to target American satellites in orbit.

New intelligence detailing Russia's alleged plan is expected to be discussed Thursday during a classified meeting between National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and congressional leadership.

Ahead of the meeting, Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH), chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, warned of a "serious national security threat" without specifying what it was, which set off a frenzy.

"I am requesting that President Biden declassify all information relating to this threat so that Congress, the administration and our allies can openly discuss the actions necessary to respond to this threat," Turner said in a post on X.

While little intelligence has been revealed publicly about Russia's plan, the US "does not have the ability to counter such a weapon and defend its satellites," The New York Times reported, citing a formal official. The report added that Russia does not appear close to deploying the weapon, so it's not considered an urgent threat.

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During a White House press briefing, Sullivan declined to answer questions about the security threat but said Americans don't need to be worried.

"Americans understand that there are a range of threats and challenges in the world that we’re dealing with every single day. And those threats and challenges range from terrorism to state actors," he said. "And we have to contend with them in a way where we ensure the ultimate security of the American people. I am confident that President Biden, in the decisions that he is taking, is going to ensure the security of the American people going forward."

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty Images