The RAF Launches a New Space Squadron to Defend UK Satellites
The RAF’s new space squadron will disrupt, degrade and deny threats to British satellites. The government has set aside £880m for space surveillance and space control from 2026/27 to 2029/30.
September 28, 2026 - 1:37 pm
Credit: SpaceX on Unsplash
The Royal Air Force has established a new space squadron, the Ministry of Defence announced on September 23. No. III Space Effects Squadron is the UK's first dedicated unit to counter threats to British satellites.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, the Chief of the Air Staff, revealed this at the first UK Space Power Conference. The squadron joins existing units No. I Space Operations Squadron and No. II Space Warning Squadron.
It will employ advanced technology, including electronic warfare, and support both defensive and offensive operations. The MoD has kept specific details classified.
“Space no longer supports operations from the sidelines. It’s a domain of direct competition, where our military advantage can be won or lost,” said Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth.
£880m for Space Surveillance and Control
The government has allocated £880m for space-based surveillance and control from 2026/27 to 2029/30. The squadron will expand as new capabilities become available.
Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, who was scheduled to deliver the keynote speech, emphasized the century's reliance on space control. He drew parallels with naval power in the 19th century and air power in the 20th.
The satellites protected by this unit support missile warning, mobile networks, weather forecasts, and more. The UK emphasizes its commitment to peaceful space use and has ruled out destructive anti-satellite missile tests.
Europe's Space Ambitions
The UK's space strategy includes £7.8bn in investments in defense, satellites, and the European Space Agency by 2030. France recently hosted a Paris space summit, while European carriers are considering competing with Starlink.