{
  "id": 9576687,
  "title": "UK Launches Space Squadron as Russia Ramps Up Satellite Threats",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/uk-launches-space-squadron-as-russia-ramps-up-satellite-threats",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-24T15:49:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/uk-launches-space-squadron-russia-satellite-threats-12482638"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The United Kingdom has unveiled a new special space unit, the Royal Air Force's Number 3 Space Effects Squadron, in response to escalating concerns about orbital threats from Russia and other adversaries. Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, head of the RAF, cautioned that Russia's intentions in space are of \"serious concern.\" Last October, UK Space Command accused Russia of monitoring British military satellites. In June 2025, the UK joined 29 other nations at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council, condemning Russian jamming and spoofing of satellites. Reports indicate the British military has been using ground-based systems to jam or block other countries' satellites, aiming to thwart hostile threats. This confirmation is less surprising, according to Filippo Marchetti, a professor at the University of Westminster. The RAF already operates the Number 1 Space Operations Squadron, which monitors space activity, and the Number 2 Space Warning Squadron, which alerts to potential threats. The new squadron focuses on disrupting hostile activities in space, safeguarding British satellites, warning of incoming missile attacks, and providing communications. Utilizing advanced technology like Electronic Warfare, the squadron aims to disrupt, degrade, and deny hostile actions. Smyth emphasized that while no one seeks war in space, the squadron is positioned to deter such scenarios. The U.K.'s Space Strategy, updated last week, highlights the strategic importance of satellites, which contribute to around 18 percent of the UK's economic activity, and outlines plans until 2035 with a £7.8 billion investment. However, legal questions arise regarding the UK's jamming activities, as legal experts warn that interfering with foreign satellites in peacetime needs justification and may violate international law. Smyth also noted that Russia is not the only threat; other nations, including the United States, are also engaging in irresponsible behavior in space.",
  "summary": "A new unit aims to disrupt space threats, protect British satellites, warn of incoming missile attacks and provide communications.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}