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UK establishes new military space unit to protect critical orbital satellites

The Guardian reports that Britain is establishing an RAF squadron to safeguard satellites and assist potential offensive space operations.

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · 10:24 UTC1 reports

The short version

  • The UK is creating the No III Space Effects Squadron to defend satellites vital for navigation, communication, and missile warnings.[The Guardian]
  • Defence Secretary Wes Streeting is scheduled to announce the unit as part of efforts to keep pace in orbital defense.[The Guardian]
  • The squadron may support offensive and defensive operations, while the UK continues to ban destructive anti-satellite missile tests.[The Guardian]

Key facts

  • The UK is launching the No III Space Effects Squadron to protect critical satellites and potentially assist offensive operations.[The Guardian]
  • The RAF unit is designed to safeguard orbital hardware handling missile attack alerts, communications, and maritime navigation.[The Guardian]
  • UK Space Command reported last year that Russia has regularly attempted to jam British military satellites.[The Guardian]
  • The UK government has formally barred destructive anti-satellite missile testing while pursuing responsible space behavior norms at the UN.[The Guardian]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.