In a groundbreaking demonstration of military collaboration in space, the United Kingdom and the United States successfully conducted a first-of-its-kind operation involving two satellites. This strategic maneuver saw one US satellite closely approach and assess the performance of the UK’s SKYNET 5A military communications satellite, marking a significant step in extending defense cooperation beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
The operation took place from September 4 to September 12, during which US Space Command executed precise maneuvers to navigate its satellite into proximity with SKYNET 5A, both of which reside in geostationary orbit, approximately 35,786 kilometers (22,369 miles) above the equator. In this orbital zone, satellites maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth, making it vital for communication systems.
The intricate procedure, termed a “Rendezvous Proximity Operation,” required exact precision due to both satellites racing through space at speeds nearing 11,000 kilometers (6,835 miles) per hour, or three kilometers (1.8 miles) per second. This extraordinary pace reflects the challenges faced in space operations and underscores the advanced capabilities of the teams involved.
Conducted under the auspices of the Multinational Force-Operation Olympic Defender, a US-led coalition that includes nations such as Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand, and the UK, the mission aims to fortify collective defense capabilities in space amid increasing threats from rival nations.
Major General Paul Tedman, Commander of the UK Space Command, hailed the operation as a testament to the strength of allied cooperation in space. He emphasized that the successful endeavor was carried out safely and responsibly by skilled specialists on both sides of the Atlantic. “The likeminded nations of Multinational Force-Operation Olympic Defender are now assertively safeguarding our shared interest in space, through advanced combined space operations,” he stated.
This operation comes during a time when outer space is becoming increasingly contested, particularly with Russia and China enhancing their military space capabilities. Lieutenant General Douglas Schiess, Commander of US Space Forces – Space and Combined Joint Force Component Command, highlighted that the maneuver underscored the credibility of combined space defense efforts. “This coordinated maneuver between two allies validated the interoperability that’s foundational to our collective defense,” he remarked. He added that the demonstration of the coalition’s military strength in orbit serves as a credible deterrent in the evolving landscape of space security.
