The head of Britain's Royal Air Force warned of unprecedented threats to satellites
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Cyber security· Prelims + Mains·
Space security and electronic warfare: a GS3 case study on protecting critical communication infrastructure.
Why in news
The head of Britain's Royal Air Force warned of unprecedented threats to satellites, while a defence source revealed Britain used a ground-based system to jam a hostile state's communications.
Background
The Royal Air Force warned of threats to satellites used for communication, internet, bank transfers, and satnav. A defence source confirmed the UK utilized a ground-based system to jam satellite communications from a hostile state.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TSatellites are used for communication, internet, bank transfers, and satnav.
- FactBritain utilized a ground-based system to jam satellite communications from a hostile state.
Prelims practice question
Which of the following functions is supported by satellites as per the report?
- (a)Deep sea mining
- (b)Bank transfers
- (c)Atmospheric carbon capture
- (d)Nuclear fusion
Show answer
Answer: (b) Bank transfers — The note specifies that satellites are used for communication, internet, bank transfers, and satnav.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the implications of the emerging space arms race on global communication infrastructure and the necessity of space-based security frameworks.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Infrastructure vulnerability: Dependence on satellite networks for critical financial and navigation systems
- Asymmetric warfare: Use of ground-based jamming systems to disrupt orbital communication assets
- Regulatory vacuum: Lack of binding international norms to prevent space-based electronic warfare
Keywords: Space security · Electronic warfare · Satellite jamming · Orbital infrastructure · Arms race
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.