Moscow Continuously Aiming at British Satellites, Space Command Chief Reports
Moscow is trying to disrupt British defense space systems on a regular basis, according to the leader of the British Space Command.
Maj Gen Paul Tedman disclosed that Russian forces were actively trying to interfere with UK-based military activities on a weekly basis and were closely monitoring the nation's orbital systems.
“We are observing UK space assets facing interference by the Russians on a fairly regular basis,” he said.
The United Kingdom manages approximately six dedicated military satellites for communications and surveillance, which Tedman said were outfitted with anti-interference systems.
He added: “They’ve got equipment on board that are able to observe our satellites and are trying to collect information from them.”
Global Orbital Dangers
The danger of orbital disruption is not limited to the United Kingdom. Earlier this fall, the German defense minister, the German official, announced that Moscow was monitoring Intelsat space systems operated by the German military.
“They can jam, blind, manipulate or physically damage space assets,” he stated at a space conference in Berlin.
Cooperative Response
In response to growing international tensions, the UK and the US last month executed their first coordinated satellite manoeuvre in orbit, in what defense officials hailed as a significant advancement in allied cooperation.
Between 4 and 12 September, a American space asset was relocated in space to examine a UK satellite and confirm it was functioning properly. The test was conducted under a joint defense initiative, a joint military framework designed to enhancing space protection and resilience.
“Skillfully performed with US Space Command, I am extremely satisfied or proud of the quick advancement we are making with our allies,” the general commented.
Escalating Friction
The growing orbital conflict comes as tensions with Russia continue to rise.
The British foreign minister, Yvette Cooper, stated recently that the UK was prepared to respond after the US president, President Trump, openly encouraged NATO partners to shoot down encroaching Russian planes.
During an address to the United Nations in September, the foreign secretary censured Russia's “inflammatory and irresponsible” incursions of Nato airspace in the past month, including incidents over Estonia, Poland and Romania.
