Via Satellite
• Shaun Waterman
Cyber experts describe how space cybersecurity has moved into the mainstream over the past decade, evolving from an assumption that systems were protected by obscurity to a broader, whole-of-system approach. The discussion tracks a change in how the sector considers security across interconnected space systems.
Cybersecurity (Cyber Threats & Protection)
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A retrospective of CyberSat traces a decade of events, from a hacking demonstration to disclosures of critical threats. The cluster offers a view of how cybersecurity risks affecting aerospace systems have surfaced and evolved through the conference’s defining moments.
Cyber experts describe how space cybersecurity has moved into the mainstream over the past decade, evolving from an assumption that systems were protected by obscurity to a broader, whole-of-system approach. The discussion tracks a change in how the sector considers security across interconnected space systems.
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.
High activity
The Space Force selected Northrop Grumman and True Anomaly to build “space-to-space” ISR satellites by 2028, while L3Harris secured a $461.9 million executive-aircraft satcom contract. Separately, Nokia and ICEYE are developing sovereign low-Earth-orbit communications systems for governments, defense contractors and emergency services.
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.
High activity
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.
High activity
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.
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