Response to Russian orbital threats: The US is working on space "aircraft carrier"

To spread: the American company Gravitics has started the implementation of an ambitious project to create a so -called orbital aircraft carrier - a module capable of placed and launching satellites directly from the orbit. The works are underway with a Stratfi contract worth up to $ 60 million, allocated by the US space forces through SpacewerX innovative unit, Army Recognition reports. The first demonstration version of the device is expected by 2026.

It is a fundamentally new model of conducting operations in space. Unlike the traditional approach, which involves emergency launches from Earth, the orbital aircraft carrier is already in orbit and provides instantaneous expansion of a amount of amounts to the potential zones of conflict. According to the head of Gravitics Colin Dopan, the system repeats the naval logic of aircraft carriers.

"Aircraft carriers make it possible for the military to have a means of readiness near the zones of interest. Our orbital media do the same, but in space," he explained. The designed platform is a cylindrical module with solar panels and a compartment of up to 60 cubic meters and a starting weight of 5 to 10 tons.

It will be able to transport and produce several maneuverable satellites as needed, in particular, in response to: Gravitics modules should ensure logistical autonomy and increase the resilience of groups in potential conflict. The first reduced system demonstrator is planned to be launched in 2025. It is noted that the program is implemented against the background of increased competition in space.

General Censman, the US Space Forces Head, previously stated a critical shortage of rapid response orbital means. Therefore, the creation of an orbital aircraft carrier is seen as an important step to eliminate this gap. At the same time, the activity of probable opponents increases in orbit. The United States accuses China of deployment of "netting" (kill mesh), sipping systems.