Overview

• Defence Minister Boris Pistorius outlined a programme for resilient satellite constellations, ground stations, secured launch options, and supporting services.
• Measures include cybersecurity hardening for all space systems and improved orbital awareness via radars, telescopes, and future watcher satellites.
• Pistorius said the Bundeswehr’s Space Command will require its own satellite-operations centre to maintain control and enable rapid crisis response.
• He called for a discussion of offensive capabilities in orbit as part of deterrence and highlighted a launch strategy spanning small launchers and future European heavy-lift rockets.
• Pistorius agreed to convene a joint conference with the Economy Ministry and industry to assess expansion of defence production in East Germany, as Arianespace plans Ariane 6 launches of two new German military communications satellites.