Germany Unveils €35 Billion Space Security Strategy Amid Rising Global Tensions

BERLIN — Germany launched a new national space security strategy on Monday to safeguard its satellite infrastructure as geopolitical competition in outer space intensifies, particularly with Russia and other space powers (24/11/25).

The German government confirmed that the multi-year plan includes a large-scale expansion of military space capabilities and the protection of critical orbital assets, which have become increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks, electronic interference, and potential hostile actions.

According to Reuters, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announced that Berlin will invest €35 billion over the coming years to modernize satellite defenses and enhance surveillance architecture.

“Satellite networks today are an Achilles’ heel of modern societies,” Pistorius stated, warning that Germany must be prepared for “new forms of conflict that may unfold hundreds of kilometers above the Earth.”

Pistorius added that the strategy includes the development of resilient satellite constellations, secure ground stations, autonomous launch capabilities, and a dedicated military space operations center under Germany’s Space Command. He emphasized that the investment is necessary because space has become “a decisive operational domain in modern defense planning.”

Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stressed that the initiative is not intended to escalate militarization but to maintain global stability.

“The race for dominance in space is in full swing. It is therefore all the more important that Germany protects its interests while upholding the peaceful and rules-based use of outer space,” Wadephul said, as quoted by Reuters.

The new policy also responds directly to recent incidents in Europe, including reported Russian GPS signal disruptions over the Baltic region. German officials described such activities as a warning that key satellite systems supporting navigation, communications, and military logistics are vulnerable to external interference.

Analysts say Germany’s major investment signals a shift in European space policy at a time when the United States, China, and Russia have each accelerated the development of space-based defense programs.

As nations compete for orbital advantage, Germany aims to position itself as a stabilizing power capable of deterring aggression while promoting cooperative governance of outer space.

The strategy is expected to serve as a blueprint for future EU-wide security policies, as Brussels considers strengthening collective defense capabilities in orbit. Germany’s move may also prompt neighboring countries to reassess their own space security frameworks in anticipation of emerging threats.