"Could This New Northrop Spacecraft Use Its Robotic" Topic

…Arms To Attack Enemy Satellites?

"A spacecraft equipped with two robotic arms, developed by Northrop Grumman, is set to be launched today. The company plans to establish an entire fleet of these Mission Robotic Vehicles (MRVs), ostensibly to offer a commercial service to refuel and repair satellites in orbit. However, the question has been raised about whether the MRV could also be used to attack enemy assets in space. The U.S. Space Force has said publicly that it is pursuing offensive space-based capabilities, primarily to help protect friendly satellites from growing threats.

Whether the MRV, or a derivative thereof, could be employed in an offensive role explicitly came up during a quarterly Northrop Grumman earnings call this morning. The company does not appear to have ruled out the possibility.

"As part of our satellite servicing portfolio, we've developed the first commercial robotic spacecraft capable of repairing, relocating, and servicing satellites in geosynchronous orbit via two robotic arms," Northrop Grumman CEO Kathy Warden had highlighted in her introductory remarks at the start of the call. "It can also install life extension jetpacks onto other satellites for government or commercial customers, prolonging their useful life for up to eight years."

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Armand

I hope so! The Chicoms have satellites to do it!
I'm sure there are Treaty of Westphalia treaties in place to prevent this. But, please….. 🙄🤷
But we have evolved past powdered Whigs and beauty spots.
If it has an arm, it can fire a .44 Magnum. "Do you feel lucky?"

I have to say a kinetic approach seems easier to accomplish, whatever the already threat of space debris.

Saving old satellites from orbital decay, that's exciting!

Doug

It'll need repair tools lke a drill as well, obviously.
Less dramatic than a 44 magnum but hug and drill seems like it could be quite effective.

(smile)

Armand

Andy,‘I would add toss to your hug and drill.