French General Warns of Rising Space Threats

France’s top space commander warns of rising hostile actions in orbit. Major General Vincent Chusseau says threats have intensified since the Ukraine invasion. The warning highlights growing global security concerns.

Russia is identified as a particularly active nation in this new frontier. China’s capabilities are also expanding at a rapid pace. Western nations are now bolstering their space defenses in response.

Russia’s Space Tactics Since Ukraine Invasion

Major General Chusseau spoke exclusively with Reuters. He leads the French Space Command. He confirmed a significant spike in hostile space activity since 2022.

Adversaries are using diverse methods to disrupt satellites. These actions include jamming signals and launching cyberattacks. Laser technology is also being deployed against orbital assets.

The Ukraine conflict demonstrates space’s role as a operational domain. Satellites are crucial for modern military communications and intelligence. Their disruption can cripple national security and economic functions.

Global Response to Orbital Threats

Western powers are publicly acknowledging this emerging threat. The United States, Canada, and the UK have issued similar warnings. All recognize the economic and military dependence on space assets.

Canada’s military space chief revealed a startling statistic. There are now over 200 anti-satellite weapons in orbit. This number underscores the rapidly evolving danger.

Germany is enhancing its national space defenses. Major General Michael Traut confirmed new satellite constellations are planned. The first phase is scheduled for completion by 2029.

France is prioritizing space asset resilience. This includes monitoring new low-orbit constellations like Starlink. The nation also plans to develop capabilities to act decisively in space.

The French warning confirms space is the newest military frontier. This hostile activity in space demands immediate international attention and a coordinated defensive response from Western allies.

Thought you’d like to know

What types of hostile activity are happening in space?

Nations are engaging in jamming satellite signals and cyber attacks. They are also using lasers and close-approach maneuvers with other spacecraft.

Which countries are most active in these space operations?

Russia has been especially active since its invasion of Ukraine. China is also rapidly developing its counter-space capabilities.

How are Western nations responding to the threat?

Countries like France, Germany, and the UK are building new satellite constellations. They are also developing technologies to monitor and protect their assets.

Why are satellites so important to protect?

Satellites are vital for military communications, GPS, and intelligence gathering. They also support critical civilian infrastructure like banking and energy grids.

Has Russia responded to these allegations?

Moscow says it opposes placing weapons in space. The Kremlin denies recent US assertions that Russia has launched anti-satellite weapons.

Trusted Sources

Reuters