Germany is preparing to make a leap in quality in defense and space security. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, speaking at the space congress of the Federal Association of German Industry (BDI) in Berlin, announced that by 2030, 35 billion euros will be allocated to the creation of a new space architecture for the Bundeswehr.
According to Pistorius, this is a necessary strategy to defend and deter threats in space, an increasingly contested operational domain. “The Bundeswehr is an integral part of a state-level space security architecture. We also truly take money into our hands: in 2030, we plan to use budget funds for 35 billion euros in projects,” he stated.
The New German Space Architecture
The project involves the creation of a resilient structure of satellite constellations, ground stations, and secure launch capabilities, capable of ensuring protection, deterrence, and operational continuity. A key element will also be the strengthening of cybersecurity of space systems, protection from disruptions and attacks, as well as the improvement of orbital surveillance through radars, telescopes, and future “guardian” satellites.
The backdrop of these measures is the growing threat to Western space infrastructures, with particular reference to Russia, accused of conducting hostile activities such as the neutralization of civilian satellites, already emerged in the early months of the war in Ukraine.
Offensive Capabilities and Deterrence
Pistorius emphasized that Germany does not intend to limit itself to passive protection:
“Deterrence is also necessary in space to be able to defend oneself.”
For this reason, Berlin aims to develop offensive capabilities, along with a national on-demand space transportation system. The approach involves a mix of small launchers for rapid departures and the use of heavy European carriers in the medium term.
A key element will be the creation of a satellite military operations center within the Bundeswehr Space Command, to maintain direct control over national systems and respond promptly to emergencies.
The minister placed strong emphasis on the European dimension: no country, he reiterated, can face the space challenge alone. The new German architecture will therefore be a pillar for NATO and the EU, integrating with existing programs.
The agreement of the Franco-German Defense Council on satellite early warning was mentioned, as well as the expansion of cooperation with non-European partners. Germany participates from 2024 in the Olympic Defender operation, alongside the “Five Eyes” countries, and contributes to the Combined Space Operations Initiative, involving nine international partners.
Industry and Innovation
A central aspect of the strategy will be the involvement of industry:
- new satellite constellations dedicated to early warning, reconnaissance, and communications;
- development of dual-use systems, employable in both civilian and military fields;
- strategic partnerships between large groups and SMEs, with a significant role for start-ups.
The minister promised streamlined and non-bureaucratic procedures to foster innovation, with the goal of quickly obtaining ready-to-use solutions.
Looking to the future, Pistorius confirmed investments also in space planes and directed energy weapons, such as smart lasers, designed to neutralize threats without generating space debris, a fundamental aspect for the sustainability of activities in orbit.
The minister's message was clear:
“Whoever attacks satellites attacks the foundations of modern life. The threat situation is high and developments are rapid. Germany and Europe are catching up.”
With this ambitious plan, Germany aims to become a central player in European space security, strengthening the resilience of its infrastructures and the deterrence capability of the Atlantic Alliance.
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