In his speech at the opening of the European Space Conference, Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union (EU) Foreign Ties and Security Policy, stated that space has become a strategic sphere of influence, is now active in all areas of life, and is seen as one of the main battlefields in security and defense. .
“Space has now become a kind of battleground where at least competition and confrontation will occur,” said Borrell, and shared his prediction that geopolitical competition on earth would increase in space.
“We must prepare for a space environment that will become increasingly competitive and competitive,” Borrell said.
Noting that governments around the world allocated $100 billion to space studies last year, Borrell stated that 5,500 satellites are currently orbiting in space.
“Provides critical information”
Borrell said, “About 10 percent of the 5,500 satellites in space are related to or used by the military. Others have more than one dual use, that is, they are used by both civilians and soldiers. These satellites provide critical information to support our security and defense.”
Citing the war in Ukraine as an example to explain the strategic value of satellites, Borrell said, “Satellite images and communication have shown that they are game changers for the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the entire public.”