Insider Brief:
- Russia has voiced its concern about US intelligence plans to use commercial satellite operators like SpaceX to build spy satellites.
- The nation has warned that such actions could render these satellites legitimate targets.
- The White House recently raised concerns about Russia’s alleged development of a “space-based” anti-satellite weapon. Moscow dismissed these claims as a “malicious fabrication.
Russia has voiced its awareness and concern about US intelligence plans to leverage commercial satellite operators, including SpaceX, cautioning that such actions could render these satellites fair game for military actions as reported by Reuters. The reports shed light on SpaceX’s involvement in constructing a network of hundreds of spy satellites under a classified contract with a US intelligence agency – a move that has further revealed a deepening collaboration between Elon Musk’s company and national security entities.
Speaking to reporters, Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova discussed Russia’s recognition of Washington’s efforts to enlist the private sector in advancing its military space objectives. Zakharova emphasized that such satellite systems could become legitimate targets for retaliatory measures, including military actions.
According to Reuters, sources familiar with the program have reported that SpaceX’s Starshield business unit is spearheading the construction of this satellite network under a $1.8 billion contract with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), tasked with managing spy satellites. The ambitious endeavour, focused on deploying vast, low-Earth orbiting satellite systems, aims to bolster American ground forces’ capabilities. If successful, it could significantly enhance the US government and military’s capacity to swiftly identify potential targets across the globe.
Zakharova also addressed Russia’s initiative in the UN General Assembly with a draft resolution titled “Space Science and Technology for Promoting Peace.” The resolution seeks to establish international consensus on the unacceptable use of civilian space systems for exerting force on geopolitical adversaries.
In a separate development, the White House recently raised concerns about Russia’s alleged development of a “space-based” anti-satellite weapon. Moscow dismissed these claims as a “malicious fabrication.” Both situations convey the evolving landscape of space security and the complexities surrounding the intersection of commercial satellite ventures and national security interests.
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