Germany Boosts Space Security: Arianespace to Launch Two Military Satellites
Arianespace has signed a deal with Airbus Defence & Space to launch two German military satellites, SATCOMbw Stufe 3. This move comes as Germany plans to invest €35 billion over five years to bolster its space program, responding to threats from Russia and China.
The two new satellites, designed and integrated by Airbus, will provide secure communications for the German army. They are part of the SATCOMBw Stage 3 program, with the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) serving as the primary contracting authority.
Germany's concern over space threats is not unfounded. There are currently 39 Chinese and Russian reconnaissance satellites orbiting over Germany. Two Russian 'Luch-Olymp' satellites have been accused of loitering near other satellites, potentially for eavesdropping. Russia and China have rapidly developed capabilities for warfare in space, including disrupting satellite operations and blinding satellites.
The launch of these two German military satellites, along with the significant investment in the space program, signals Germany's commitment to strengthening its space security. These measures aim to counter the growing threats posed by Russia and China in the space domain.
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