Every so often special forces units are deployed to remote missions, hundreds of miles from any network system infrastructure. Communicating reliably in such remote areas has long been challenging, often relying on geostationary (GEO) satellites that suffer from high latency and occasional dropouts. A new wave of private companies is changing the game, offering faster, more reliable connectivity, capable of operating in the most isolated and extreme environments while democratizing access to space like never before. These dynamic companies compose what is now referred to as the NewSpace sector.
At the core of this transformation are Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks, which revolutionise how militaries collect and use data. For instance, a commander can track troop movements, monitor vehicle performance, and receive real-time intelligence on the ground. The lower latency of LEO satellites allows for split-second decisions that can change the course of a mission. In modern warfare, where seconds can make the difference, real-time situational awareness is not just valuable, it’s crucial.
Because LEO satellites orbit much closer to Earth than traditional GEO satellites, they can ensure continuous, reliable communication in even the most remote and challenging locations such as deep valleys or dense forests. This minimizes the risk of communication blackouts, which could otherwise jeopardize critical military operations.
NewSpace is also leading the charge in securing military communications. For instance, the QUDICE project is driving advancements in quantum devices and subsystems for space-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), which will be useful in securing military communications against emerging quantum threats. Sateliot, the pioneering satellite operator delivering NB-IoT connectivity from space, is integrating this approach to secure its LEO constellation. These advancements offer the defense sector with robust cybersecurity measures, securing sensitive information while enhancing operational efficiency in complex environments.
Beyond satellite networks, cloud services are becoming increasingly integral to military operations as they offer scalable platforms for storing, processing, and analyzing massive amounts of data collected by LEO satellites. However, seamless integration between satellite operators, cloud providers, and defense agencies is essential to ensure continuous, secure communication and data flow during operations. Public-private collaborations are critical in making this integration a reality.
A prime example of this collaboration is the U.S. Department of Defense’s Commercial Augmentation Space Reserve (CASR), which enables the military to swiftly tap into newly developed space technologies from the private sector. CASR bypasses the long development timelines typically associated with traditional defense projects, providing the military with rapid access to the latest advancements. This agility is key to staying ahead of geopolitical competitors, particularly as tensions rise between the U.S. and China.
China’s rapid advancements in space, such as launching remote-sensing satellites and building its Tiangong space station, signal a new and highly competitive space race. To maintain dominance in this domain, the U.S. must continue to foster strong collaborations between NewSpace companies and defense agencies. The private sector’s ability to innovate rapidly and adapt to shifting global demands ensures that the U.S. military and its allies remain on the cutting edge of space technology.
As warfare evolves and decisions become more data-driven, NewSpace will be central to keeping defense forces connected, adaptable, and ahead of the curve. By working closely with private companies, defense organizations can stay agile, resilient, and ready to confront the unpredictable challenges of the future. In this new era of defense, NewSpace is not just a supplement but the backbone of military operations.
