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The Hindu
08-07-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
On the Golden Dome: how Trump's missile shield tests space law
From golden citadels to divine shields, rulers across time have dreamt of impregnable security. But in every age, these ambitions have either collapsed under their own weight or have provoked greater instability. In 2025, this ancient dream went to orbit. In May, U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a bold new national defence initiative called the 'Golden Dome', a $175-billion space-based missile shield designed to fend off ballistic, hypersonic, and orbital threats. The plan involves deploying a constellation of satellite interceptors, potentially armed with kinetic or directed-energy weapons, to form a protective layer over the U.S. Framed as a defence move, the project has sparked concerns worldwide for its geopolitical ramifications as well as for its implications under international space law. In particular, the Golden Dome challenges the Outer Space Treaty's limits, raises constitutional concerns within the U.S., and puts pressure on key strategic partners such as India. Loophole or legal red line? At the heart of the legal debate is Article IV of the Outer Space Treaty (OST), 1967. It prohibits placing 'nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction' in orbit or stationing them 'in outer space in any other manner'. It further mandates that celestial bodies shall be used 'exclusively for peaceful purposes'. The language of Article IV, particularly its explicit focus on Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs), has created a loophole for conventional weapons in space. The term 'peaceful purposes' has been subject to various interpretations, with some nations claiming that it permits all non-aggressive military use, while others insist it implies complete demilitarisation. The treaty further states: 'The establishment of military bases, installations and fortifications, the testing of any type of weapons and the conduct of military manoeuvres on celestial bodies shall be forbidden.' The use of military personnel for scientific research or any other peaceful purposes isn't prohibited, however. The use of any equipment or facility necessary to peacefully explore the moon and other celestial bodies is also not prohibited (Article IV). Because the Golden Dome's interceptors are not classified as WMDs, they don't violate the letter of Article IV per se. There are a few concerns nonetheless. In arms control, the practical outcome must always take precedence over the technical details or official classifications of a weapon. This means what a weapon is called matters far less than its actual strategic effect. For instance, if kinetic interceptors are used to disable or destroy missiles or satellites, their impact could fundamentally alter the balance of power in space. This capability could create a dangerous first-strike advantage for one nation, thereby eroding the principle of mutual deterrence, which relies on the threat of retaliation to prevent an attack. Such a development would undermine the core goal of arms control treaties, which is to foster stability through restraint, and could trigger a significant and destabilising shift in the dynamics of power in outer space. UN General Assembly resolutions under the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) Treaty, while lacking legal enforceability, have successfully established an interpretive norm against the militarisation of space. The deployment of space-based interceptors, therefore, directly threatens this norm and could trigger a cascade of similar actions by other nations. These systems are plagued by dual-use ambiguity. A kinetic interceptor, ostensibly for missile defence, possesses the inherent capability to be instantly repurposed to neutralise an adversary's vital communication or surveillance satellites. This inherent uncertainty risks inflaming suspicion and driving miscalculation, especially during heightened crises involving major space powers like China and Russia, both of which have already explicitly condemned the proposed deployment. Partners in crossfire India, a rising space power and a key U.S. partner in satellite tracking and space situational awareness, now finds itself tactically aligned but normatively conflicted. Quiet cooperation in areas like debris monitoring could tacitly link India to the Golden Dome's strategic ecosystem. However, India is also a vocal champion of peaceful space use. It has consistently supported PAROS resolutions and has positioned itself as a leader of the Global South in advocating for equitable and demilitarised space governance. Supporting or even appearing to tolerate the Golden Dome could undermine that credibility, damaging India's image as a responsible spacefaring nation and a potential norm-setter in future treaty negotiations. Conversely, non-cooperation might strain its growing strategic ties with Washington. This dilemma becomes even more consequential in the context of India's pending Space Activities Bill, which will shape how the country defines and regulates dual-use platforms, private-sector participation, and treaty compliance. The Golden Dome is thus more than a U.S. policy issue: it's a litmus test for India's own legal and diplomatic posture and could significantly influence the direction and content of the Space Activities Bill. Less than golden precedent The broader concern is that the Golden Dome will normalise the weaponisation of outer space. If the U.S. crosses this threshold without facing legal repercussions, China, Russia, and other actors are likely to follow suit. This could trigger a destabilising cycle of orbital arms races, forcing smaller nations to resort to asymmetric capabilities, such as cyberattacks, jamming or even the deliberate generation of debris in orbit. Such developments would not only weaken the OST's authority but could also unravel the fragile consensus that has governed space for over half a century. In the absence of updated and enforceable treaties, outer space risks becoming a legal grey zone or, worse, a battlefield governed by force rather than law. Thus, the Golden Dome is more than a military gamble or a political spectacle. It's a legal inflection point for space governance in the 21st century. It exposes loopholes in a 58-year-old treaty, reveals structural weaknesses in domestic oversight, and underscores the urgent and immediate need for modern legal instruments that can keep pace with technological realities. Strategic partners, such as India, along with like-minded spacefaring nations, should notably push to clarify and modernise the OST, especially the parts pertaining to dual-use and conventional space-based weapons. Advocacy for legally binding instruments on the non-deployment of weapons in space is of paramount importance. This pursuit of international agreements, which play a crucial role, should be complemented by establishing comprehensive transparency mechanisms for military space projects to reduce ambiguity and mistrust. It's also crucial that national laws, such as India's Space Activities Bill, include clear guidelines for defence cooperation in space, fostering responsible practices both domestically and globally. Shrawani Shagun is pursuing a PhD at National Law University, Delhi, focusing on environmental sustainability and space governance.
India Gazette
26-06-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
"With Operation Sindoor, India exercised its right to defend against terrorism and pre-empt & deter further cross border attacks": Rajnath Singh at SCO Defence Ministers' meeting at Qingdao
Qingdao [China], June 26 (ANI): Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, on June 26, 2025, laid down the broad contours of India's transitional shift in its policy against terrorism at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting at Qingdao, China, calling upon the member countries to unite in eliminating the menace for collective safety and security, the Ministry of Defence said in an official release. The Defence Minister asserted that India launched Operation Sindoor in response to the heinous terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, exercising its right to defend against terrorism and pre-empt as well as deter further cross border attacks. 'During the Pahalgam terror attack, victims were shot after they were profiled on religious identity. The Resistance Front, a proxy of UN-designated terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) claimed responsibility for the attack. The pattern of Pahalgam attack matches with LeT's previous terror attacks in India. India's zero tolerance for terrorism was demonstrated through its actions. It includes our right to defend ourselves against terrorism. We have shown that epicentres of terrorism are no longer safe and we will not hesitate to target them,' he said, as stated in the Ministry of Defence release. Addressing the Defence Ministers, SCO Secretary General, Director Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) of SCO and other distinguished delegates, Rajnath Singh stated that the biggest challenges faced by the region are related to peace, security and trust-deficit, with increasing radicalisation, extremism & terrorism being the root cause of these problems. 'Peace and prosperity cannot co-exist with terrorism and proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction in the hands of non-state actors and terror groups. Dealing with these challenges requires decisive action. It is imperative that those who sponsor, nurture and utilise terrorism for their narrow and selfish ends must bear the consequences. Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide shelter to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards. SCO should not hesitate to criticise such nations,' said Rajnath Singh. Rajnath Singh reiterated the need to hold the perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of reprehensible acts of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, accountable and bring them to justice. He termed any and every act of terrorism as criminal & unjustifiable regardless of their motivation whenever, wherever and committed by whom-so-ever. SCO members must condemn this evil unequivocally, he said, reaffirming India's resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The Defence Minister called for proactive steps to prevent the spread of radicalisation among the youth, acknowledging the significant role of the RATS mechanism in tackling the challenge. 'The joint statement of the Council of SCO Heads of State on 'Countering Radicalisation leading to Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism' issued during India's Chairmanship symbolises our shared commitment,' he stated. Rajnath Singh underscored the importance of countering the technology used by terrorists including drones for cross-border smuggling of weapons and drugs, pointing out that traditional borders are no longer the sole barriers against threats in this interconnected world. He stressed that the world faces an intricate web of challenges that range from transnational terrorism and cyber-attacks to hybrid warfare. These threats, he said, do not respect national boundaries, and demand a unified response rooted in transparency, mutual trust, and collaboration. Highlighting SCO's crucial role in the current uncertain geopolitical scenario, Rajnath Singh stated that the member countries contribute around 30 per cent of the global GDP and about 40 percent of the world's population resides in them. He described the creation of a safe, secure and stable region as a collective stake, which can contribute towards progress and improvement of peoples' lives. Rajnath Singh said globalisation has been losing momentum, and the weakening of multilateral systems has made it harder to address urgent challenges, from maintaining peace and security to rebuilding economies after the pandemic. He added that competition between major powers is intensifying, with trade and technology being increasingly used as tools in geopolitical rivalries. 'India believes that reformed multilateralism can help build cooperation to prevent conflict between countries by creating mechanisms for dialogue and collaboration,' he said. The Defence Minister voiced India's commitment to increasing its connectivity with Central Asia. 'Better connectivity not only enhances mutual trade but also fosters mutual trust. However, in these efforts, it is essential to uphold the basic principles of the SCO charter, particularly respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states,' he said. Rajnath Singh added that India has been consistent and steadfast in its policy in support of peace, security & stability in Afghanistan. He enumerated the immediate priorities in Afghanistan including providing humanitarian assistance to its people and contributing to overall developmental needs. As Afghanistan's largest regional development partner, India continues to implement capacity-building initiatives for the Afghan people, the Ministry of Defence noted. The Defence Minister also shared insights on how non-traditional security challenges like pandemics, climate change, food & water security, and associated societal disruptions recognise no boundaries and impact peoples' lives. He stressed that these challenges cannot be addressed without responsible policies and cooperation among nations. 'India's initiative on Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure aims not only at promotion of disaster resilient infrastructure, but also infrastructure risk management, standards, financing and recovery. It is also an example of how countries are coming together to create and share capabilities to deal with humanitarian assistance & disaster relief,' he added. Rajnath Singh stated that India's vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) are testament to create a conducive environment for growth and economic development, with security & stability being the most essential components. He underlined India's support to greater cooperation and mutual trust among SCO members, urging them to collectively aspire to fulfill the aspirations and expectations of the people while tackling today's challenges. 'We must all be in lockstep in our endeavour in strengthening stability and security in our neighbourhood,' he said. The Defence Minister highlighted that India seeks to build consensus on dealing with global challenges on the basis of the motto 'One Earth, One Family, One Future', which is founded on its civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family). Mutual understanding and mutual benefit must be our guiding principles, he said. (ANI)
India Gazette
26-06-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
India refuses to sign SCO Joint Statement over terrorism issue; Rajnath Singh takes veiled dig at Pakistan, seeks crackdown on crossborder terror
Qingdao [China], June 26 (ANI): India on Thursday refused to sign a joint declaration at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in China, which, according to sources, did not have any mention of the dastardly April 22 terror attack in Pahalagam but mentioned incidents in Pakistan. According to government sources, the Raksha Mantri did not sign the SCO document as India is not satisfied with the language of the joint document, as there was no mention of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, there was mention of the incidents that happened in Pakistan, so India refused to sign the joint declaration, and there is no joint communique either Addressing the Defence Ministers' Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in China's Qingdao, Singh said that there should be no place for double standards regarding terrorism, and member countries of the bloc should not hesitate to criticise nations that indulge in such actions. In his remarks at the meeting, Singh called on members of the SCO to take united and decisive action against terrorism and the spread of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) in the possession of non-state actors and terrorist groups. Without explicitly naming Pakistan, Singh noted that peace and prosperity cannot co-exist with terrorism. 'I believe that the biggest challenges that we are facing in our region are related to peace, security and trust deficit. And the root cause of these problems is increasing radicalisation, extremism and terrorism, he said. Singh said, 'Peace and prosperity cannot co-exist with terrorism and proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) in the hands of non-state actors and terror groups. Dealing with these challenges requires decisive action, and we must unite in our fight against these evils for our collective safety and security.' Taking a veiled dig at Islamabad, Singh said, 'Those who sponsor, nurture and utilise terrorism for their narrow and selfish ends must bear the consequences. Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide shelter to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards. SCO should not hesitate to criticise such nations.' India, along with China and Russia, are part of the 10-member grouping of the SCO, whose other members include Pakistan, Belarus, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. India's zero tolerance for terrorism is manifest today through its actions, Singh said. 'This includes our right to defend ourselves against terrorism. We have shown that epicentres of terrorism are no longer safe, and we will not hesitate to target them, he said. He pointed out that countries should seek to counter the technology used by terrorists, including drones for cross-border smuggling of weapons and drugs. 'In our interconnected world, traditional borders are no longer the sole barriers against threats. Instead, we face an intricate web of challenges that range from transnational terrorism and cyber-attacks to hybrid warfare,' he said 'These threats do not respect national boundaries, and they demand a unified response rooted in transparency, mutual trust, and collaboration. India reaffirms its resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Singh noted that on April 22, the terror group 'The Resistance Front' (TRF) carried out a dastardly and heinous attack on innocent tourists at Pahalgam in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. '26 innocent civilians, including a Nepali national, were killed. Victims were shot at after they were profiled based on their religious identity. The Resistance Front, which is a proxy of UN-designated terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) claimed responsibility for the attack,' he said. 'The pattern of the Pahalgam terror attack matches with LeT's previous terror attacks in India. In exercising its right to defend against terrorism and pre-empt as well as deter further cross-border terrorist attacks, India on 07th May 2025 successfully launched Op Sindoor to dismantle cross-border terrorist infrastructure,' he said. Singh said that India reiterates the need to hold the perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of reprehensible acts of terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, accountable and bring them to justice. 'Any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivation, whenever, wherever and by whomever committed. SCO members must condemn this evil unequivocally.' Further, he said that India is committed to increasing its connectivity with Central Asia. 'Better connectivity not only enhances mutual trade but also fosters mutual trust. However, in these efforts, it is essential to uphold the basic principles of the SCO charter, particularly respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states.' 'India supports greater cooperation and mutual trust among SCO members. We should collectively aspire to fulfil the aspirations and expectations of our people as well as tackle today's challenges. We must all be in lockstep in our endeavour in strengthening stability and security in our neighbourhood,' Singh said. (ANI)
Mint
26-06-2025
- Politics
- Mint
‘No place for double standards': Rajnath Singh's sharp swipe at Pakistan during SCO meet, Khwaja Asif in attendance
In a scathing attack on Pakistan at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Defence Ministers' meeting in China's Qingdao, Rajnath Singh on Thursday asserted, 'peace cannot co-exist with terrorism' and also urged the members of the SCO to condemn terrorism. Singh said, "I believe that the biggest challenges that we are facing in our region are related to peace, security and trust-deficit. The root cause of these problems is increasing radicalisation, extremism and terrorism. Peace and prosperity cannot co-exist with terrorism and proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction in the hands of non-state actors and terror groups. Dealing with these challenges require decisive action and we must unite in our fight against these evils for our collective safety and security" He goes on to add,'...Some countries use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of policy and provide shelter to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards. SCO should not hesitate to criticise such nations.' "On 22 April 2025, the terror group 'The Resistance Front' carried out a dastardly and heinous attack on innocent tourists at Pahalgam in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. 26 innocent civilans, including a Nepali national, were killed. Victims were shot at after they were profiled based on religious identity. The Resistance Front which is a proxy of UN designated terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba claimed responsibility for the attack." "Any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivation whenever, wherever and by whom-so-ever committed. SCO members must condemn this evil unequivocally." "We reiterate the need to hold the perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of reprehensible acts of terrorism, including cross border terrorism accountable and bring them to justice," said Singh Talking about Operation Sindoor, he said, "The pattern of Pahalgam terror attack matches with LeT's previous terror attacks in India. In exercising its right to defend against terrorism and pre-empt as well as deter further cross border terrorist attacks, India on 7th May 2025 successfully launched Operation Sindoor to dismantle cross border terrorist infrastructure." Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday arrived in the Chinese port city of Qingdao to attend a conclave of the SCO. It is the first visit to China by a senior Indian minister after the ties came under severe strain following the military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh that began in May 2020. Singh was received at the Qingdao airport by Indian ambassador Pradeep Kumar Rawat.
Hindustan Times
26-06-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Hold perpetrators of terror acts accountable: Rajnath Singh at SCO meet
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking at a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on Thursday, said that peace, security and trust-deficit are the biggest challenges that the region needs to tackle. During the Defence Ministers' Meeting in China's Qingdao, Singh urged members to unite against terrorism and extremism. Rajnath Singh attends the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting in Qingdao.(REUTERS) 'The biggest challenges in our region are related to peace, security and trust deficit,' Singh stated during his address. 'India believes that reformed multilateralism can help build cooperation to prevent conflict between countries by creating mechanisms for dialogue and collaboration. No country, however large and powerful, can manage alone.' Singh emphasised that the root of these issues lies in the growing threat of radicalisation, extremism, and terrorism. 'Peace and prosperity cannot co-exist with terrorism and proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction in the hands of non-state actors and terror groups,' he said. 'Dealing with these challenges requires decisive action and we must unite in our fight against these evils for our collective safety and security.' Speaking about Operation Sindoor and Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said that India has a right to defend itself and punish the perpetrators. "The pattern of Pahalgam terror attack matches with LeT's previous terror attacks in India. In exercising its right to defend against terrorism and pre-empt as well as deter further cross border terrorist attacks, India on 7th May 2025 successfully launched Operation Sindoor to dismantle cross border terrorist infrastructure," Singh said. "We reiterate the need to hold the perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of reprehensible acts of terrorism, including cross border terrorism accountable and bring them to justice," the Defence Minister added.
