Moscow Continuously Targeting British Satellites, Space Command Chief Says
Moscow is trying to disrupt UK military satellites frequently, as stated by the leader of the UK Space Command.
Major General Paul Tedman revealed that Moscow's military were actively trying to interfere with UK-based military activities “weekly” and were closely monitoring the nation's orbital systems.
“We are observing UK space assets facing interference by Russian forces on a reasonably persistent basis,” he said.
The UK operates approximately six dedicated military satellites for communication and observation, which the general noted were equipped with anti-interference systems.
He added: “They possess payloads onboard that are able to observe UK space assets and are trying to collect data from them.”
Global Orbital Dangers
The threat of space-based interference is not limited to the UK. Earlier this fall, Germany’s defence minister, Boris Pistorius, revealed that Russia had been tracking Intelsat space systems used by the German military.
“They can jam, blind, control or kinetically disrupt space assets,” he stated at a orbital defense meeting in Berlin.
Allied Countermeasures
Reacting to increasing global friction, the UK and the US recently conducted their initial joint space operation in space, in what military leaders described as a significant advancement in international partnership.
Between 4 and 12 September, a US satellite was repositioned in orbit to examine a British space system and verify it was operating correctly. The test was conducted under Operation Olympic Defender, a combined defense program designed to improving satellite defence and resilience.
“Skillfully performed with American Space Command, I could not be more pleased or impressed of the rapid progress we are making with our partners,” Tedman said.
Increasing Tensions
The escalation in space comes as friction with Moscow continue to rise.
The UK foreign secretary, the foreign secretary, stated recently that the UK was prepared to respond after the American leader, President Trump, publicly urged NATO partners to intercept intruding Russian aircraft.
In a speech to the UN in September, the foreign secretary censured Moscow’s “inflammatory and irresponsible” incursions of Nato airspace in recent weeks, including events over Estonia, Poland and Romania.
