Russia Continuously Targeting British Space Assets, Military Space Chief Reports
Russia is attempting to jam UK military satellites 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 nation's orbital systems.
“We’re seeing UK space assets being jammed by the Russians on a reasonably persistent basis,” he said.
The UK operates approximately six specialized defense space systems for communication and observation, which Tedman said were equipped with anti-interference systems.
He added: “They possess payloads onboard that are able to observe UK space assets and are trying to collect data from them.”
International Orbital Dangers
The threat of space-based interference extends beyond the UK. Earlier this fall, Germany’s defence minister, Boris Pistorius, announced that Russia had been tracking two Intelsat satellites used by the German military.
“They can jam, disable, control or physically damage space assets,” he stated at a orbital defense meeting in the German capital.
Cooperative Countermeasures
In response to growing international tensions, the United Kingdom and United States last month conducted their first coordinated satellite manoeuvre in orbit, in what military leaders described as a major step forward in international partnership.
Between 4 and 12 September, a US satellite was repositioned in orbit to inspect a UK satellite and confirm it was operating correctly. The test was conducted under Operation Olympic Defender, a combined defense program aimed at enhancing space protection and durability.
“Skillfully performed with US Space Command, I am extremely satisfied or proud of the quick advancement we are achieving with our partners,” Tedman said.
Increasing Tensions
The growing orbital conflict comes as friction with Moscow persistently increase.
The British foreign minister, Yvette Cooper, stated recently that Britain was “ready to act” after the US president, Donald Trump, openly encouraged NATO partners to shoot down intruding Russian aircraft.
During an address to the United Nations in last month, Cooper condemned Russia's “provocative and reckless” violations of NATO territory in recent weeks, including events over Estonia, Poland and Romania.
