June 3, 2024
By Jason Blessing
C4ISRNET
Space systems have traditionally remained secure due to a relatively low-threat environment. But as space continues to become integral for warfare, U.S. military assets are increasingly at risk of incapacitation or destruction. Creating resilient space systems is imperative for the U.S. Space Force—America’s front line of defense in space.
Now in its fourth year, the service has increasingly turned to commercial solutions for enhancing resiliency. Thus far, Space Force has leveraged private sector contracts to proliferate and diversify its satellite constellations as part of an acquisitions strategy to exploit what it has and buy what it can.
While redundancy and diversification are crucial for resilience, commercial space systems are increasingly vulnerable to digital compromise. Cyberattacks have become the most cost-effective means for adversaries to disrupt satellites, ground stations, and user devices for accessing space-based networks. They are a constant, daily threat that spans competition and conflict. With the acquisition of new space based capabilities, including commercial elements, it is vital that these systems have adequate protections against cyber threats.
Now is the time for the Space Force to address system cybersecurity in commercial acquisitions.
Read the full article at C4ISRNET.
