Legal Issues and Prospects for No Placement of Weapons in Outer Space

Introduction. The article analyzes the current situation in the use of outer space, which is characterized by the expansion of outer space activities, increased competition and a dangerous trend of the possible placement of weapons in outer space. After examining the existing international outer space law, the author identifies gaps in international treaties that must be addressed in order to prevent the deployment of weapons in outer space. Particular emphasis is placed on the study on the assessment of effectiveness of international legal efforts of the Russian diplomacy in dealing with this urgent task.

Materials and methods. The methodological basis of the study comprises general scientific methods of knowledge: analysis, synthesis, induction/deduction, analogy, as well as special scientific methods: comparative legal, formal legal and statistical methods.

Results of the study. It was revealed that international outer space law has been developing from the beginning in the logic of limitations on the military use of outer space. However, they are selective and permit the deployment in outer space of non-nuclear weapon systems. There is a real threat of weapons being deployed in outer space especially because the USA is not even hiding such an intention. A number of negotiating bodies exist to eliminate this threat by international legal means. Russia continues an active diplomatic work in the UN, at the Conference on Disarmament and other locations. The author demonstrates that support for Russian initiatives is growing, but they are persistently confronted by the United States and their allies.

Discussion and conclusion. Based on the results of the analysis and expert opinions the author advances specific proposals in support of Russia’s diplomatic efforts to prevent confrontation in outer space. It is recommended that the number of countries which pledged not to be the first to place weapons in outer space should be expanded; that this subject should be included in the BRICS documents; that the second conference on peaceful use of outer space dedicated to the 60th anniversary of the Yuri Gagarin space flight should be to be held in Moscow in 2021.

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