Moscow Persistently Aiming at UK Space Assets, Space Command Head Reports
Russia is attempting to jam British defense space systems on a regular basis, according to the head of the UK Space Command.
Maj Gen Paul Tedman revealed that Russian forces were actively trying to disrupt British defense operations “weekly” and were closely monitoring the nation's orbital systems.
“We are observing UK space assets being jammed by Russian forces on a fairly regular basis,” he said.
The UK operates approximately six dedicated military satellites for communication and observation, which Tedman said were equipped with anti-interference systems.
He further stated: “They possess equipment on board that can see our satellites and are trying to collect data from them.”
Global Space Threats
The danger of orbital disruption extends beyond the United Kingdom. Earlier this fall, Germany’s defence minister, the German official, announced that Moscow was monitoring two Intelsat satellites used by the German military.
“They are capable of disrupting, blind, manipulate or kinetically disrupt satellites,” he said at a orbital defense meeting in the German capital.
Cooperative Countermeasures
Reacting to increasing global friction, the United Kingdom and United States last month conducted their first coordinated satellite manoeuvre in space, in what military leaders described as a major step forward in allied cooperation.
Between 4 and 12 September, a American space asset was relocated in space to inspect a UK satellite and confirm it was operating correctly. The operation was conducted under Operation Olympic Defender, a combined defense program designed to enhancing space protection and durability.
“Skillfully performed with US Space Command, I could not be more pleased or proud of the rapid progress we are achieving with our allies,” the general commented.
Escalating Friction
The escalation in space occurs while tensions with Russia continue to rise.
The UK foreign secretary, the foreign secretary, stated recently that the UK was prepared to respond after the American leader, Donald Trump, openly encouraged Nato allies to shoot down intruding Russian aircraft.
In a speech to the UN in September, Cooper condemned Russia's “provocative and reckless” violations of Nato airspace in recent weeks, including events over Baltic nations, Poland and Romania.
