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UK Launches New Military Space Squadron to Defend Satellites from Threats
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CNBC TV18•23-09-2026, 15:07
UK Launches New Military Space Squadron to Defend Satellites from Threats
- •Britain announced the launch of No III Space Effects Squadron, a new Royal Air Force (RAF) unit dedicated to defending the country's satellites.
- •The squadron will protect critical communication and missile warning satellites by disrupting, degrading, and denying enemy activity targeting British interests in space.
- •This new unit complements two squadrons launched in 2023 that monitor space threats, with the new squadron focusing on active defense using advanced technology, including electronic warfare.
- •The announcement comes amidst a growing global 'space race,' with the US confirming arms in orbit and China and Russia warning against weaponizing outer space.
- •Major General Paul Tedman previously expressed concern over Russia's attempts to jam British military satellites, highlighting the UK's six dedicated military satellites equipped with counter-jamming technology.
Key Questions Answered
The new unit is named No III Space Effects Squadron and is the UK's first dedicated military squadron charged with defending the country's critical communication and missile-warning satellites by disrupting, degrading, and denying enemy activity in space.
Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth will formally unveil the new squadron at a two-day UK Space Power Conference in London.
Last year, the head of UK Space Command Major General Paul Tedman warned that he was worried by Russia attempting to jam British military satellites on a regular basis.
