In a bold move signaling a heightened concern over the vulnerability of space assets, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius unveiled plans today for a massive €35 billion ($41 billion) investment in space security over the next five years. The announcement, made at the Federation of German Industries’ annual Space Congress in Berlin, underscores Germany’s commitment to defending and deterring threats in the space domain.
Building a Fortified Space Defense
Pistorius emphasized the need to construct robust structures within the Bundeswehr (German armed forces) capable of effective defense and deterrence in space in the medium and long term.
The plan encompasses the acquisition of new satellite constellations designed for early warning, reconnaissance, and communications. A key element is the utilization of dual-use systems, integrating technologies applicable for both civilian and military operations.
Key Investment Areas
The extensive investment will be channeled into several critical areas:
- System Hardening: Strengthening systems against disruptions and attacks to ensure operational resilience.
- Enhanced Situational Awareness: Improving monitoring capabilities through radars, telescopes, and the integration of future sentinel satellites.
- Redundancy through Networking: Creating multiple networked satellite constellations to provide backup and ensure continuous operation.
- Secure Space Transport: Ensuring secure and on-demand transport capacities into space.
- Dedicated Operations Center: Establishing a military satellite operations center within the Bundeswehr Space Command.
Cybersecurity as a Cornerstone
Cybersecurity is highlighted as a crucial component, with Pistorius stressing the need for improved cyber defenses for all space systems. This focus echoes earlier sentiments from Maj. Gen. Michael Traut, commander of German Space Command, who advocated for built-in self-protection measures for satellites.
Russia and China as Catalysts
The decision to ramp up space security investments is largely driven by increasing threats to Western space assets from Russia and China, according to Pistorius.
He cited the February 2023 Russian cyberattack on Viasat’s communication satellite network, which also impacted German wind turbines, as a stark example of the potential consequences of space-based attacks, referencing a report by Defense News. Additionally, Pistorius alleged that Russian Luch/Olymp satellites have been shadowing US Intelsat communications satellites used by the Bundeswehr.
Industry Collaboration is Key
The German Ministry of Defense (MoD) is actively seeking collaboration with German and European industries to realize its ambitious space plans.
The MoD aims to foster innovation from small and medium-sized enterprises while leveraging larger companies as system integrators to incorporate smaller businesses and startups.
Adding to these collaborations, Arianespace recently secured a contract from the Bundeswehr to launch two SATCOMBw Stufe 3 satellites on Ariane 6 rockets, replacing the current COMSATBw 1 and 2 military communications satellites.
Moreover, the MoD is considering market-available solutions for quicker technological advancements.
Planet Labs Germany GmbH recently announced a multi-year €240 million agreement with the German government to provide high-resolution imagery and timely intelligence in support of European peace and security. The company also plans to begin producing next-generation Pelican satellites in Germany, involving a substantial capital investment.
Industry Insights
Caleb Henry, director of research at Quilty Space, identified OHB, Germany’s largest space prime, as a major beneficiary of the MoD’s plan. Henry also noted that the investments could impact Germany’s emerging launch providers, Isar Aerospace and RFA.
Henry highlighted the growing desire in Germany for greater space autonomy, marking a potential shift in the European space landscape where France has traditionally been the dominant player.
