Russia Persistently Targeting UK Satellites, Military Space Head Says
Russia is attempting to jam British defense space systems on a regular basis, according to the head of the UK Space Command.
Major General Paul Tedman revealed that Russian forces were actively trying to interfere with British defense operations “weekly” and were carefully observing the country’s space assets.
“We’re seeing UK space assets facing interference by Russian forces on a reasonably persistent basis,” he said.
The United Kingdom manages approximately six specialized defense space systems for communications and surveillance, which the general noted were outfitted with anti-interference systems.
He further stated: “They’ve got equipment on board that can see our satellites and are trying to collect information from them.”
International Space Threats
The danger of orbital disruption is not limited to the UK. Earlier this fall, Germany’s defence minister, the German official, announced that Moscow was monitoring Intelsat space systems operated by the German armed forces.
“They can jam, disable, control or kinetically disrupt satellites,” he stated at a space conference in the German capital.
Allied Response
In response to increasing global friction, the UK and the US last month conducted their initial joint space operation in orbit, in what defense officials described as a significant advancement in international partnership.
During early September, a US satellite was relocated in space to examine a UK satellite and verify it was operating correctly. The test was part of a joint defense initiative, a combined defense program aimed at improving satellite defence and durability.
“Expertly executed with American Space Command, I could not be more pleased or proud of the rapid progress we are making with our partners,” the general commented.
Increasing Friction
The growing orbital conflict comes as friction with Moscow persistently increase.
The British foreign minister, Yvette Cooper, warned last week that Britain was “ready to act” after the American leader, President Trump, publicly urged Nato allies to intercept encroaching Russian planes.
During an address to the UN in last month, the foreign secretary condemned Russia's “inflammatory and irresponsible” incursions of NATO territory in the past month, including events over Baltic nations, Eastern Europe and Southeastern Europe.
