As the UK’s reliance on space grows, so do the threats to its security and defence capabilities. The UK Defence Space Command Conference and the Defence in Space Conference, both held in 2024, brought together leading military and industry experts to offer valuable insights into the UK’s evolving space strategy. The conferences highlighted the growing importance of space to the UK’s economy and security, and the need for continued investment and innovation to maintain a competitive edge.
The Economic and Strategic Importance of Space
The UK’s space sector is experiencing remarkable growth, having doubled its workforce in recent years and now encompassing over 1,800 companies engaged in space-related activities. Satellites are a vital component of this industry, underpinning a substantial portion of the UK economy, contributing an impressive £360 billion to the nation’s GDP. GPS technology alone accounts for £7 billion of this economic impact, highlighting its essential role in everyday life and business operations. The UK is also a global leader in satellite ownership, ranking as the world’s third-largest satellite owner. The sector is a major player on the international stage, with two-thirds of its revenue generated through exports, showcasing the UK’s competitiveness and influence in the global space market.
Key Technological Trends and Military Priorities
Both conferences highlighted the increasing significance of software-defined systems in the space sector, signalling a transformative shift in how space assets are designed and utilised. The advancement of software defined satellites marks a move towards more versatile and adaptable satellite technology. These innovations allow for real-time reconfiguration, enabling satellites to adjust their functions and capabilities as needs evolve.
The development of software defined radios emerged as an additional focus from the conference, with their ability to perform advanced beam shaping. This technology enables satellites to dynamically target specific regions of demand on Earth, offering enhanced precision and efficiency in communications and data delivery. Together, these developments are paving the way for a more responsive and agile space infrastructure.
Data collection and distribution was highlighted as a military concern, with a strong emphasis on the need to deliver data from satellite intelligence to the warfighter “at the speed of operational relevance”. Real-time data access is crucial for maintaining situational awareness and making informed decisions in dynamic operational environments. Real time data access is crucial for maintaining situational awareness and making informed decisions in dynamic operational environments. Cutting-edge synthetic environments are designed to be the new operational environments, seamlessly integrating vast data streams, from satellite intelligence to ground operations, into one cohesive platform. This enables warfighters to make real-time decisions with confidence, ensuring they stay ahead in the most complex scenarios. (for more information on Synthetic Operating Environments, download our eBook here)
Resilience and Redundancy in a Contested Space Environment
The conferences underscored the importance of resilience and redundancy in the face of growing threats to space assets. In a conflict scenario, the UK must anticipate the possibility of satellite disruption. To mitigate this risk, experts emphasised the need for:
- Multiple satellites: Increasing the number of satellites provides backup options in case of individual satellite failure.
- Diverse frequency bands: Utilising a range of frequency bands and backup technologies reduces vulnerability to jamming attacks targeting specific frequencies, while also providing different levels of functionality.
- Robust backups: Establishing robust ground-based systems and data backups ensures continuity of operations even when space assets are compromised.
Challenges and Opportunities for the UK Space Sector
While the UK has made significant strides in developing its space capabilities, several challenges and opportunities lie ahead:
- Supporting Domestic Industry: The UK government needs to prioritise policies that support the growth of domestic space companies. This could include leveraging ‘friendshoring’ strategies to favour collaborations with trusted allies, while ensuring that technology roadmaps and procurement processes also support UK companies.
- Leveraging Public Data: The UK government has expressed a strong interest in utilising public data, including space data, for various applications. Making space data more accessible to researchers, businesses, and the public could stimulate innovation and create new economic opportunities.
- Cybersecurity: A significant number of cyberattacks targeting commercial space organisations exploit basic security vulnerabilities like default usernames and passwords. Enhancing cybersecurity practices across the industry is crucial to protect sensitive data and ensure the integrity of space systems.
The Future of UK Space Ambitions
The UK aspires to be a “good space citizen and space power”, promoting responsible behaviour and international cooperation in space. The UK’s National Space Strategy outlines five key priorities:
- Grow and level up our space economy
- Promote the values of Global Britain
- Lead pioneering scientific discovery and inspire the nation
- Protect and defend our national interests in and through space
- Use space to deliver for UK citizens and the world
Achieving these ambitions will require ongoing investment, technological innovation, and close collaboration with international partners, particularly allies like the US.
Navigating the UK’s Path to Global Space Leadership
The UK is at a critical turning point in its journey to establish itself as a global space power. With the sector playing an increasingly vital role in economy and cutting-edge technological advancements, the UK is well-positioned to lead in space innovation and security. However, this vision demands continued investment, enhanced cybersecurity, and strong support. As space becomes an ever-more critical domain for national security and global influence, the UK must remain agile, resilient, and forward-thinking. By embracing these challenges and capitalising on opportunities, the UK can solidify its position as a global space leader and ensure its long-term prosperity in space.