Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed his support for the demilitarization of space but added that Russia must be ready to counter others' moves to the contrary. His remarks come in response to recent discussion of the proposed U.S. Near Field Infrared Experiment (NFIRE) satellite which would have anti-satellite capabilities.
A senior Russian military official voiced strong concern about U.S. plans to develop low-yield nuclear weapons, saying that Moscow might be forced to review its own nuclear doctrine.
A senior Russian lawmaker called for Russia to upgrade its nuclear weapons capability in response to the U.S. missile defense program, despite a recent improvement in ties.
A partly Russian-owned company that once tried to bail out the Mir space station announced a plan Tuesday to launch a private space station for paying tourists.