The United Kingdom is stepping up efforts to safeguard its satellites against growing space threats, with a new project designed to counter potential attacks from hostile nations.
According to the government, around £500,000 will be invested in developing advanced sensors capable of detecting and resisting laser strikes that could blind satellites or disrupt vital communications. The initiative is being led jointly by UK Space Command and the UK Space Agency.
The announcement follows a UK-commissioned security review earlier this year, which highlighted the urgent need to strengthen military space defences.
The Strategic Defence Review stressed the importance of investment in space-based attack capabilities, as well as enhanced intelligence, navigation systems and satellite communications.
General Paul Tedman, head of UK Space Command, emphasised the critical role satellites play in modern warfare. Speaking during a visit to RAF Fylingdales radar station in North Yorkshire, he said: “Without their space assets, Western militaries can’t effectively understand, move, communicate, and fight.”
RAF Fylingdales is a key site for missile warning and space surveillance, providing joint defence capabilities to both Britain and the United States. Tedman added: “You’ve got to be able to protect your systems in space.”
Concerns over satellite security are being echoed across Europe. Germany’s defence minister recently warned of the rising threat posed by Russia, announcing a €35 billion investment in space security over the next five years. France has also boosted its role in space, leading a €1.5 billion investment in Eutelsat, a European alternative to Elon Musk’s Starlink communications service.
Industry analysts note that while the United States remains the dominant spender on space defence globally, Europe’s role is rapidly expanding, with France and Germany topping the continent’s investment charts last year.
With Britain now joining its allies in prioritising satellite resilience, the move is seen as a significant step towards strengthening collective security in space at a time of heightened international tensions.
