Russia Conducting Possible ASAT Operation Against Ukrainian Satellite
Russian military satellite Kosmos-2612 has maneuvered to within 1-2 km of ICEYE-X36, a US-registered SAR satellite used by Ukraine, in what analysts are calling a deliberate unauthorized rendezvous — potentially the first live ASAT developing in space.
What we know
A detailed thread from an account on X (amplified by defense journalist another account on X) reveals that Kosmos-2612 began a series of maneuvers on Sept 30 specifically designed to synchronize its orbit, altitude, and eccentricity with ICEYE-X36 (tweet). As of the post, the satellite was within 1-2 km and could come within meters within hours (tweet). The analyst notes this 'RPO without consent' is 'worrisome' and asks whether 'we are watching a first actual ASAT developing in Space' (tweet).
By the Global Eye 24 desk, with AI assistance. Updated as the story develops. Spot an error? Write to corrections@globaleye24.com.