Russia Continuously Aiming at British Space Assets, Space Command Head Says
Moscow is trying to disrupt British defense space systems frequently, according to the head of the British Space Command.
Maj Gen Paul Tedman disclosed that Moscow's military were actively trying to disrupt UK-based military activities “weekly” and were closely monitoring the country’s space assets.
“We are observing our satellites facing interference by the Russians on a fairly regular basis,” he stated.
The UK operates approximately six specialized defense space systems for communications and surveillance, which the general noted were equipped with anti-interference systems.
He further stated: “They possess payloads onboard that can see UK space assets and are attempting to gather data from them.”
Global Space Threats
The danger of orbital disruption extends beyond the United Kingdom. In September, the German defense minister, the German official, announced that Moscow was monitoring Intelsat space systems used by the German armed forces.
“They can jam, disable, control or physically damage space assets,” he stated at a orbital defense meeting in the German capital.
Allied Countermeasures
In response to growing international tensions, the UK and the US recently executed their initial joint space operation in orbit, in what defense officials described as a significant advancement in international partnership.
Between 4 and 12 September, a American space asset was repositioned in space to inspect a UK satellite and confirm it was operating correctly. The test was conducted under Operation Olympic Defender, a combined defense program designed to improving satellite defence and durability.
“Skillfully performed with US Space Command, I could not be more pleased or impressed of the quick advancement we are making with our partners,” Tedman said.
Escalating Friction
The escalation in space occurs while friction with Moscow continue to rise.
The British foreign minister, Yvette Cooper, stated recently that the UK was prepared to respond after the US president, President Trump, publicly urged NATO partners to shoot down encroaching Russian planes.
In a speech to the United Nations in last month, the foreign secretary condemned Russia's “inflammatory and irresponsible” incursions of Nato airspace in recent weeks, including events over Baltic nations, Eastern Europe and Romania.
