US Military Shuttle Launches Into Space on Secret Mission: What To Know
Newsweek21 hrs
SpaceX Launches US Military X-37B Space Plane
Above: A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV-6) on May 15, 2020. Image copyright: Paul Hennessy/Contributor/NurPhoto/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The X-37B represents America's cutting-edge space superiority capabilities in an increasingly contested domain. These missions demonstrate critical technologies like quantum navigation and laser communications that will keep U.S. forces connected and resilient against any challenge. The program's ability to operate autonomously for years while testing classified experiments shows America's commitment to maintaining space dominance.
Establishment-critical narrative
The secretive nature of X-37B missions raises concerns about the militarization of space and an emerging arms race with nations like China and Russia. The classified experiments and extended orbital periods suggest capabilities that go beyond peaceful research, potentially including surveillance and space control operations. This shadowy contest unfolds while other countries develop their own military space programs in response.