Russia has conducted a flight test of a new anti-satellite missile in what Pentagon officials say is a step in advancing Moscow’s space warfare capabilities.
A U.S. defense official said American intelligence agencies monitored the missile test March 26 from Plesetsk, a test center located about 150 miles northwest of Moscow. The missile is designated the PL-19 and known as the Nudol.
The latest test was judged a success and is at least the sixth time the new missile was tested. Three earlier flight tests were gauged as successful.
The direct ascent missile is considered a significant threat to satellites in low-Earth orbit.
“Russia continues to tout advances in cyber and counterspace capabilities along with improvements in its strategic nuclear and general purpose forces,” Air Force Gen. John Hyten, commander of the Strategic Command, told a March 20 Senate Armed Services
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