Russian satellites shadow German military satellites as space tensions rise

Two Russian satellites shadow German and allied satellite assets, a development that underscores mounting concerns about warfare in space as Moscow and Beijing expand their capabilities. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius warned Thursday about the growing threat posed by Russian space activities, citing intelligence that two Russian satellites have tracked or shadowed Intelsat satellites used by German forces and other Western partners.

Speaking at a space conference in Berlin, Pistorius described a rapid buildup in space warfare capabilities by Russia and China, saying: 'Russia and China have expanded their capabilities for warfare in space rapidly over the past years: They can disrupt satellite operations, blind satellites, manipulate or kinetically destroy them.' He said the international community must consider developing deterrent options, including offensive capabilities, to prevent escalation. He noted that Moscow has used two of its Luch Olymp satellites to track Intelsat satellites, a step authorities describe as part of broader reconnaissance and potential disruption activity.

The episode comes as Western allies rely on space-based assets for command and control, communications and intelligence, creating high stakes for ongoing diplomatic discussions on space security. Analysts say such activity highlights the vulnerability of satellite networks that underpin military operations, navigation systems and critical communications in Europe and beyond, at a time of heightened geopolitical tension with Russia and China.

Pistorius’ remarks at the Berlin conference reflect a broader debate among Western officials about deterrence and resilience in space. While public pledges focus on defensive measures, some policymakers argue that discussing possible offensive capabilities could serve as a deterrent against hostile action in space. The German defense minister underscored the need for international talks as part of a coordinated effort to prevent miscalculation and to establish norms in a domain where rapid developments outpace treaties.

Officials cautioned that the situation remains fluid and subject to verification, with no independent confirmation yet available about the specific positioning of the Luch Olymp satellites or the precise nature of the tracking activity. Still, the incidents underscore the growing importance of space as a security arena and the potential for future confrontations to unfold in orbit rather than on Earth.