The accumulating tensions between major space powers increase the likelihood of space conflict. Though outer space is widely militarized, presumably it has not been weaponized. However, the dual-use nature of space technology raises serious concerns about its utilization. The article reviews and compares chosen space systems and technology with the residual offensive capability that could be misused for malicious purposes and could be utilized as space weapons. Demonstrated space-related technology, namely space launch vehicles, small satellites, satellites as weapon platforms, information technology and active debris removal systems, have broad dual-use consequences that can eventually lead to the weaponization of outer space. Nevertheless, space conflict would most likely result in undesired proliferation of space debris with irreversible impact on space environment. The states should promote responsible behaviour concerning emerging space technology and should seek further consideration of space norms that would sustain peaceful uses of outer space.

主要太空大国之间不断累积的紧张局势增加了太空冲突的可能性。尽管外层空间被广泛军事化，但据推测它尚未被武器化。然而，空间技术的双重用途性质引起了对其利用的严重关切。这篇文章回顾并比较了选定的空间系统和技术与可能被滥用于恶意目的并可能被用作空间武器的剩余攻击能力。已展示的空间相关技术，即空间运载火箭、小型卫星、作为武器平台的卫星、信息技术和主动碎片清除系统，具有广泛的双重用途后果，最终可能导致外层空间武器化。尽管如此，空间冲突极有可能导致空间碎片的意外扩散，对空间环境产生不可逆转的影响。各国应促进有关新兴空间技术的负责任行为，并应寻求进一步考虑维持和平利用外层空间的空间规范。