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Europe's Next Security Challenge in Orbit

June 26, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

Satellite-dependent activity underpins over 10% of EU GDP.
Space-based activity accounts for 18% of UK GDP.
Protecting satellites requires Space Situational Awareness (SSA).
SSA spending to hit $61 billion over the next decade.

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Strategic Implications

Europe's reliance on satellites may indicate a growing need for strategic autonomy in space. The development of SSA technologies could suggest a shift in European defense priorities, which may lead to increased investment in space-based defense systems and could potentially deter adversaries from targeting European satellites.

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What Happened

Protecting Satellites From Adversaries Requires Space Situational Awareness

The European Union’s reliance on satellite-dependent activity, which underpins over 10% of its GDP, makes protecting these systems crucial. Space Situational Awareness (SSA) is vital in detecting and responding to potential threats, and its development is seen as a strategic priority. With SSA spending expected to reach $61 billion over the next decade, Europe must prioritize sustained funding and procurement reform to support innovation and collaboration. This was reported by SpaceNews.

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