Moscow Persistently Targeting British Satellites, Space Command Chief Says
Moscow is trying to disrupt UK military satellites frequently, according to the leader of the British Space Command.
Major General Paul Tedman revealed that Moscow's military were consistently attempting to disrupt British defense operations on a weekly basis and were closely monitoring the nation's orbital systems.
“We are observing UK space assets being jammed by the Russians on a fairly regular basis,” he said.
The United Kingdom manages approximately six dedicated military satellites for communication and observation, which the general noted were outfitted with counter-jamming technology.
He added: “They possess equipment on board that can see our satellites and are attempting to gather data from them.”
Global Space Threats
The threat of space-based interference extends beyond the United Kingdom. Earlier this fall, Germany’s defence minister, the German official, revealed that Russia had been tracking two Intelsat satellites operated by the German armed forces.
“They are capable of disrupting, blind, manipulate or physically damage space assets,” he stated at a space conference in Berlin.
Allied Response
In response to increasing global friction, the UK and the US last month conducted their first coordinated satellite manoeuvre in space, in what military leaders described as a major step forward in international partnership.
Between 4 and 12 September, a American space asset was relocated in orbit to examine a British space system and confirm it was operating correctly. The test was part of a joint defense initiative, a combined defense program aimed at improving satellite defence and durability.
“Skillfully performed with US Space Command, I am extremely satisfied or impressed of the quick advancement we are making with our allies,” the general commented.
Increasing Tensions
The escalation in space occurs while friction with Moscow continue to rise.
The UK foreign secretary, Yvette Cooper, warned last week that the UK was prepared to respond after the US president, Donald Trump, publicly urged NATO partners to shoot down intruding Russian aircraft.
In a speech to the UN in last month, Cooper censured Moscow’s “inflammatory and irresponsible” incursions of NATO territory in the past month, including events over Baltic nations, Eastern Europe and Southeastern Europe.