European security officials say that Russian spacecraft have been conducting what amounts to orbital surveillance and signal interception of critical Western satellites. Intelligence assessments suggest that these activities pose growing risks to space-based infrastructure that supports government, military, and commercial operations.
The alleged monitoring has intensified concerns among European policymakers, who warn that space is becoming an increasingly contested domain amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Russian Satellites Track Western Communications
According to intelligence sources, two Russian satellites known as Luch-1 and Luch-2 have repeatedly maneuvered close to key European geostationary communication satellites. These satellites reportedly intercepted unencrypted command data and sensitive communications.
The activity has been observed over several years, coinciding with deteriorating relations between Russia and Western nations following the invasion of Ukraine.
Experts Warn of Signals Intelligence Operations
Western analysts describe the maneuvers as deliberate signals intelligence operations.
“Both Luch-1 and Luch-2 are suspected of conducting signals intelligence by positioning themselves near Western communications satellites,” said Major General Michael Traut, head of the German armed forces’ space command.
Norbert Bosin, senior orbital analyst at Aldoria, said such positioning allows Russia to gather operational data even without decrypting messages. “If they can’t read the content, they can still learn how the satellite is used and where ground stations are located,” he said.
Unencrypted Systems Leave Satellites Exposed
Industry experts warn that many older European satellites lack modern encryption systems, making them particularly vulnerable to interception.
These satellites transmit data through narrow communication beams between ground stations and orbiting platforms. By positioning themselves within these corridors, foreign spacecraft can capture valuable technical information.
This vulnerability has renewed calls for accelerated upgrades to satellite security systems.
Potential Risks to Critical Infrastructure
Security officials caution that long-term access to satellite communications could enable future interference.
Analysts warn that hostile actors may eventually use collected data to manipulate satellite orbits, disrupt services, or cause equipment malfunctions. Such actions could affect broadcasting, navigation, emergency communications, and military coordination.
Belinda Marchand, chief scientist at Slingshot Aerospace, noted that one Russian satellite had been observed near Intelsat 39, a major communications hub serving Europe and Africa.
Space Activity Linked to Hybrid Warfare Tactics
Western officials increasingly view these operations as part of broader hybrid warfare strategies, which combine military pressure with cyber operations, disinformation campaigns, and infrastructure sabotage.
While Russia denies deploying weapons in space, European leaders argue that persistent proximity operations and signal interception suggest a systematic effort to exploit space vulnerabilities.
“This is about gaining strategic advantage without firing a shot,” one senior defence official said.
Calls for Stronger Space Security Measures
In response to the growing threat, European governments are urging enhanced space security policies. These include improved encryption, better tracking of foreign spacecraft, and closer cooperation between civilian and military space agencies.
Officials stress that protecting orbital infrastructure is now essential to national security and economic stability.
