Previous multilateral efforts at creating a space arms control regime have failed because just about any space system can function as an anti-satellite weapon. For example, the Shuttle's extendable robotic arm has been used for in-orbit repair of satellites but it could just as easily be used to remove them from orbit.

Previous multilateral efforts at creating a space arms control regime have failed because just about any space system can function as an anti-satellite weapon. For example, the Shuttle's extendable robotic arm has been used for in-orbit repair of satellites but it could just as easily be used to remove them from orbit. This is sometimes referred to as the 'residual ASAT' problem.