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 that space threats could devastate satellites used for communication, internet, bank transfers, and satnav. A defence source confirmed Britain utilized a ground-based system to block 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 burgeoning space arms race on global communication infrastructure and the necessity of space-based security measures.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Infrastructure vulnerability: Dependence on satellites for critical financial and communication systems
- Asymmetric warfare: Use of ground-based jamming systems to disrupt orbital assets
- Regulatory vacuum: Lack of binding international norms to prevent space-based electronic warfare
Keywords: Space security · Electronic warfare · Satellite jamming · Critical infrastructure · Arms race
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