Russia Persistently Aiming at UK Space Assets, Military Space Chief Reports
Moscow is trying to disrupt UK military satellites on a regular basis, according to the leader of the British Space Command.
Maj Gen Paul Tedman revealed that Russian forces were actively trying to disrupt British defense operations “weekly” and were carefully observing the nation's orbital systems.
“We’re seeing our satellites facing interference by the Russians on a reasonably persistent basis,” he stated.
The UK operates approximately six dedicated military satellites for communications and surveillance, which Tedman said were outfitted with anti-interference systems.
He added: “They possess equipment on board that are able to observe our satellites and are trying to collect information from them.”
International Space Threats
The threat of space-based interference is not limited to the United Kingdom. Earlier this fall, Germany’s defence minister, Boris Pistorius, revealed that Russia had been tracking two Intelsat satellites used by the German armed forces.
“They are capable of disrupting, disable, manipulate or kinetically disrupt satellites,” he said at a space conference in Berlin.
Allied Response
Reacting to growing international tensions, the United Kingdom and United States last month conducted their initial joint space operation in orbit, in what military leaders described as a significant advancement in international partnership.
During early September, a US satellite was repositioned in space to examine a UK satellite and verify it was functioning properly. The test was part of Operation Olympic Defender, a combined defense program aimed at improving satellite defence and durability.
“Expertly executed with American Space Command, I could not be more pleased or impressed of the quick advancement we are making with our partners,” Tedman said.
Increasing Friction
The escalation in space comes as tensions with Russia continue to rise.
The British foreign minister, the foreign secretary, stated recently that Britain was “ready to act” after the American leader, President Trump, openly encouraged NATO partners to shoot down intruding Russian aircraft.
In a speech to the UN in September, the foreign secretary censured Moscow’s “provocative and reckless” violations of Nato airspace in recent weeks, including incidents over Baltic nations, Poland and Southeastern Europe.
