Royal Air Force creates unit to counter hostile actions in orbit

London, 23 September – Air Chief Marshal Harv Smith formally introduced a new Royal Air Force unit designed to protect the United Kingdom's satellite constellation. Named the Number III Space Effects Squadron, the force will defend communication and missile‑warning satellites from adversarial interference.

The Ministry of Defence highlighted that this marks the first dedicated British capability to interfere with, weaken, or prevent enemy space activities targeting national interests. Earlier this year, two squadrons were tasked with monitoring and issuing alerts on space threats; the new squadron adds an offensive edge, employing electronic warfare and advanced systems to neutralise risks.

Defense Minister Wes Streeting, present at the UK Space Power Conference in IET, Sevoy Place, indicated that the UK is ready to take a more active role in the emerging space weapons competition. The move follows a U.S. disclosure of orbital weapon deployments and statements from China and Russia cautioning against turning outer space into a battlefield.

The establishment of the squadron also responds to warnings from Major General Paul Tedman, head of UK Space Command, who expressed concern over repeated Russian attempts to jam British military satellites.