By Robert Wall and Viviennse Machi,
Published by Aviation Week, 25 September 2025
“Counterspace” is becoming a buzz word for Western defense planners grappling with the increasing likelihood of combat in space. As Russia and China deploy a widening variety of terrestrial and space-based technologies that can threaten the spacecraft of other countries, Western military officials…
Generative Summary
Western militaries are increasingly focused on developing counterspace capabilities to ensure space superiority amid rising threats.
Counterspace Developments
- Western defense planners are prioritizing counterspace technologies due to threats from Russia and China.
- High-energy laser weapons and spaceplanes are being explored for nonkinetic anti-satellite operations.
- U.S. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink emphasized the need for operational capabilities in space.
National Initiatives
- The UK is establishing a Space Defense Center for command control and counterspace capabilities.
- Germany plans to launch two demonstrator satellites in two years for counterspace development.
- Spain aims to deploy counterspace technology by 2030, finalizing studies by year-end.
French Counterspace Efforts
- France is funding high-power laser research for counterspace applications and exploring military spaceplane capabilities.
- The Vortex D spaceplane, set to fly by 2028, could deploy satellites and inspect objects in orbit.
U.S. Space Control Investments
- Increased funding for U.S. space control capabilities aims to counter China’s space-enabled targeting systems.
- Electro Optic Systems is developing a high-power laser system for satellite deorbiting and space debris management.
See: Original Article
