France and United States Plan Second Joint Military Satellite Mission

PARIS / WASHINGTON, Oct. 2, 2025 — France and the United States are preparing a second joint satellite manoeuvre in orbit, a senior U.S. general told Reuters. The planned operation is part of a growing effort to enhance allied surveillance and defensive capabilities in space as China expands its military presence above Earth.

This initiative follows the Pentagon’s first joint manoeuvre with France late last year and a recent operation conducted with the United Kingdom. Space is becoming an increasingly contested domain. Satellites crucial for communications, missile warning, and battlefield intelligence face potential threats from China, Russia, and the United States itself. Officials warn that any conflict in orbit could disrupt GPS navigation or sever communication channels relied upon by forces on Earth.

Can Allies Keep Up with Rival Powers?

The key question for military strategists is whether joint manoeuvres can give allied nations an advantage against rivals advancing rapidly in space capabilities. Lieutenant General Douglas Schiess, commander of a U.S. Space Force component working with Space Command on secretive operations, confirmed that planning is underway with France. He suggested that similar collaborations with other allies could follow.

Western military officials have repeatedly raised concerns about threats to both military and commercial satellites. Constellations like SpaceX’s Starlink, which serve hundreds of millions globally, are increasingly a focus for defensive operations.

France’s Strategic Role

France has become Europe’s largest government spender on space and plays a key role in allied operations. French Space Command emphasizes training with the United States to strengthen cooperation and demonstrate strategic solidarity. While the unit declined to comment on upcoming operations, it said preparing for real-life military space scenarios is essential. Major General Vincent Chusseau described the first joint manoeuvre as a success but refrained from providing operational details.

Recent Operations and Emerging Capabilities

United States and France Rendezvous: The first exercise, known as a rendezvous and proximity operation, involved a U.S. and a French satellite approaching a nearby spacecraft identified only as belonging to a strategic competitor. The exercise tested the satellites’ ability to operate safely near each other while maintaining operational precision.

United States and United Kingdom Satellite Check: In September, a U.S. satellite moved to check the operation of the UK’s SKYNET 5A communications satellite in geostationary orbit, nearly 36,000 kilometres above Earth. Both satellites traveled at around three kilometres per second. Although the U.S. satellite was not officially named, commercial analysts observed that the highly manoeuvrable USA 271 likely carried out the operation.

Major General Paul Tedman, head of UK Space Command, described the mission as a first for his unit. He emphasized that it marked a significant increase in operational capability and that allied collaboration now extends to advanced orbital operations designed to protect national and military interests.

Technology and Alliances at the Forefront

Precision in manoeuvring spacecraft is becoming as important as the satellites themselves. Artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, and orbital tracking systems provide data and automation that make these operations possible. Nanosatellites monitor satellite efficiency, orbital stability, and even water reserves on Earth. These systems are not experiments but operational tools that strengthen resilience and reduce long-term risk for both military and civilian satellites.

Allied coordination is equally important. By sharing knowledge and conducting joint missions, the United States, France, and the United Kingdom are developing standards and protocols that allow them to respond more effectively to threats in orbit. Officials describe these efforts as central to ensuring that critical satellite systems remain functional even under pressures from international competition or potential conflict.

Preparing for the Challenges Ahead

Space is becoming an increasingly contested domain, and experts expect more joint operations among allied nations. Precision manoeuvring, monitoring potential threats, and integrating technology across borders are now core components of modern military strategy. The United States, France, and the United Kingdom are laying the foundation for cooperative defense in orbit while carefully observing the activities of rivals such as China and Russia.

The stakes extend beyond military intelligence. Civilian services, from navigation and communications to disaster response, also depend on these satellites. By preparing for threats and strengthening alliances, these operations aim to preserve stability in space while advancing the operational capabilities of allied nations.

We are now, with our allies, conducting advanced orbital operations to protect and defend our shared national and military interests in space.

Inputs from Diana Chou

Editing by David Ryder