‘Manipulating, Blinding, Destroying’: German Minister Says Russia Is Shadowing Satellites

Last Updated:September 25, 2025, 19:56 IST

German Defence Minister warns of Russian satellites shadowing Intelsat, urging global talks on space warfare amid rising European tensions.

Western defence officials have increasingly identified space as a critical frontier. (Representational Image)

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius warned about the growing threat posed by Russian space activities, citing concerns that Moscow is using satellites to shadow those relied upon by Germany and its allies. Speaking at a space conference in Berlin, Boris Pistorius said two Russian Luch Olymp satellites had been tracking Intelsat satellites, which are used by German armed forces among others.

“Russia and China have expanded their capabilities for warfare in space rapidly over the past years: They can disrupt satellite operations, blind satellites, manipulate or kinetically destroy them,” Boris Pistorius said. He stressed the need for international talks on developing offensive capabilities in space as a deterrent.

Wider Concerns In Europe

The warning comes amid a string of security incidents across Europe linked to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. Denmark this week reported drones flying over multiple airports, forcing temporary shutdowns at Copenhagen, Aalborg and Billund. Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen described the incursions as the work of a “professional actor” in what he called a “hybrid attack,” though there was no direct evidence of Russian involvement.

Poland, Estonia and Romania have also reported breaches of their airspace in recent weeks, with Russian drones or jets entering NATO territory. NATO officials have warned the alliance would use “all necessary military and non-military tools” to defend its members against such provocations.

Space As The Next Battleground?

Western defence officials have increasingly identified space as a critical frontier. Satellites are vital for military communications, navigation and intelligence, making them key targets in any escalation. Russia has long been accused of developing anti-satellite technologies while China has demonstrated similar capabilities.

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