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• Jacob Oakley
Researchers say they have spent eight years probing satellite systems and recently demonstrated that a commercial satellite could be compromised in orbit. The finding is part of a broader body of work aimed at showing the space industry where cybersecurity weaknesses may threaten spacecraft and mission operations.
Cybersecurity (Cyber Threats & Protection)
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Researchers say they have spent eight years probing satellite systems and recently demonstrated that a commercial satellite could be compromised in orbit. The finding is part of a broader body of work aimed at showing the space industry where cybersecurity weaknesses may threaten spacecraft and mission operations.
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The Space Force selected Northrop Grumman and True Anomaly to build space-to-space ISR satellites by 2028, while L3Harris’ executive-aircraft satcom contract reached $461.9 million. Separately, ICEYE and Nokia are developing government-operated low-Earth-orbit communications systems, and Latvia is pursuing a national 5G/6G satellite hub.
BAE Systems’ AN/APX-127(V)1 Combined Interrogator Transponder has received AIMS certification from the U.S. Department of War, clearing the identification-friend-or-foe system for U.S. Air Force F-16s. BAE expects deliveries from an initial 90-unit production lot to begin this year, with the system designed for future combat aircraft.
As space systems become more software-defined, cloud-connected and reliant on enterprise identity infrastructure, shared data is emerging as a foundation for cybersecurity. The approach would help protect navigation, communications, intelligence and emergency-response services that now depend on resilient space architectures.
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A fire that damaged the power system and backup generator at a Starlink ground station in central Poland is being investigated as suspected sabotage, with officials saying the incident may have targeted connectivity used by Ukraine’s military. The episode comes as Poland reports intensifying hostile activity against its infrastructure.
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The UK Royal Air Force has established No. 3 Space Effects Squadron, its first dedicated unit for disrupting, degrading and denying hostile activity in space while protecting critical satellites. Announced at the UK Space Power Conference, the squadron will employ electronic warfare and counter-anti-satellite capabilities.
Estonian cybersecurity company CybExer will play a key role in testing the security of IRIS², the European Union’s future secure satellite connectivity system. The appointment highlights the cybersecurity requirements attached to the EU’s planned space-based communications infrastructure as the program moves toward implementation.
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The Government Accountability Office says vulnerabilities in national airspace communications could allow spoofing and urges the FAA to strengthen its cybersecurity posture. The agency issued nine recommendations, underscoring risks to systems that support air traffic management and the resilience of U.S. aviation infrastructure.
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