Space-Centric Military Strategy
In September 2024, the UK government released its highly anticipated “UK Space Power” doctrine. It is a 91-page strategy document that lays out the country’s military vision for the space domain. This landmark policy recognizes that space is no longer solely the realm of civil and commercial activities. But it has become a critical battlefield for modern warfare.
Defence Spending and Domestic Munitions Production
The UK government will invest at least £10 billion over the next decade. To grow the country’s domestic munitions production and stockpiles. This investment will directly support the development of the UK’s space-based capabilities. To support this shift, the UK has committed to increasing its defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030. They provide an additional £75 billion for defense over the next six years. A significant portion of this funding – at least £10 billion over the next decade – will be dedicated to growing the country’s domestic munitions production and stockpiles, which will directly support the development of space-based capabilities.
Alongside this increased investment, the UK has established a new Defense Innovation Agency to manage R&D in cutting-edge military technologies. This includes areas such as directed energy weapons, hypersonic missiles, and other emerging space systems – all aimed at ensuring the UK stays at the forefront of modern warfare.
The UK-US Military Space Alliance
The doctrine also highlights the criticality of the UK-US military space alliance, with British experts currently supporting US space capabilities. This partnership is seen as essential for assuring access to key space-based services and maintaining a coordinated approach to space security.
Protecting Critical National Infrastructure
The UK government has officially recognized space infrastructure and assets as part of the country’s critical national infrastructure, underscoring the importance of protecting these vital capabilities from disruption or compromise.
Vision for Space Supremacy
The UK’s new “Space Power” doctrine represents a bold and ambitious step forward in the country’s military strategy. By prioritizing space as a key domain for military operations, investing heavily in cutting-edge technologies, and strengthening international partnerships, the UK is positioning itself as a global leader in the rapidly evolving field of space security.
