France’s top military space official has issued a strong warning about increasing “hostile or unfriendly” activities in space, particularly pointing to Russia. Major General Vincent Chusseau, who recently took charge of French Space Command, highlighted that adversaries are increasingly using advanced techniques to interfere with satellites, describing these as hostile actions.
Rising Hostile Actions in Space from Russia and China
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, there has been a sharp rise in hostile actions in orbit. Chusseau explained that these hostile actions include jamming satellite signals, using lasers, and launching cyberattacks against space systems. These hostile actions have become more common and represent a serious security challenge for France and its allies.
The conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated that space is no longer just a domain for exploration but a fully operational arena for military activity. Satellites are now central to military operations, communication networks, navigation, and surveillance. This growing dependence on space makes these assets increasingly vulnerable to hostile actions.
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In 2018, France publicly accused Russia of attempting to spy on its secret communications by maneuvering a spacecraft close to a Franco-Italian military satellite. While further details of such hostile actions have not been disclosed, the warning underlines that countries are actively observing and sometimes interfering with each other’s space assets.
China, the world’s second-largest government spender on space, is also rapidly expanding its capabilities. Chusseau noted that China is deploying more satellites for new constellations and developing new ways to operate in space that surpass previously known methods. These hostile actions in space are being watched closely by Western nations.
Western Countries Acknowledge Satellite Vulnerabilities
Other Western nations have echoed concerns over the increasing threats to satellites, which are essential for military and economic operations. Major General Paul Tedman, head of UK Space Command, emphasized that space has become a critical part of defense strategy and that hostile actions are growing in scale, sophistication, and speed.
Canada has also raised alarms about the dangers posed by anti-satellite weapons. Brigadier General Christopher Horner reported that more than 200 such weapons are currently in orbit, capable of conducting hostile actions. These hostile actions pose risks to satellite communications, Earth observation systems, and the overall ability to monitor activities in space.
Russia and China’s Formidable Military Pact Raises Red Flags Globally
The reliance on satellites for essential services—from banking and energy management to military communication—makes the security of space a high priority. The growing number of hostile actions highlights the need for nations to carefully monitor and protect their orbital assets.
France and Allies Strengthen Space Defenses Against Hostile Actions
In response to these hostile actions, France and its allies are taking steps to improve space security and resilience. One key focus for France is protecting satellites, especially in low-Earth orbit, where networks like Elon Musk’s Starlink are expanding rapidly. France has announced plans to increase its stake in the Paris-based satellite operator Eutelsat, whose OneWeb network operates in low-Earth orbit and competes with Starlink.
Chusseau also stressed the importance of being able to act in space, not just monitor it. French Space Command is working on demonstrator satellites designed to patrol orbit, track adversaries, and potentially counter threats. The goal includes surface-to-space capabilities aimed at denying, prohibiting, or interfering with adversary operations.
Germany is also moving forward with strengthening its space defenses. Major General Michael Traut, head of German Space Command, revealed plans for a multi-orbit satellite constellation, with the first stage expected to be completed in 2029. These steps reflect a broader trend among Western countries to secure space as a critical operational domain and protect national systems.
The increased activity in space highlights the strategic importance of satellites and the growing need for vigilance. Governments are now investing in both defensive and monitoring systems to safeguard these essential assets, as space becomes a frontline for security and technological competition.
