Pistorius will have more presence in space
Defense Minister Pistorius stresses the importance of securing Germany's safety in space. Secure satellites, secure data - it's better to get involved "earlier rather than later" with space.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized the strategic significance of space for the Bundeswehr's defense capabilities and advocated for more presence in space: "We need military control for satellite operations and we must strengthen our position in space," said the SPD politician during a visit to the Bundeswehr Space Command in Uedem on the Lower Rhine.
The significance of the latest Bundeswehr command may not be clear to many in the public. "We need to realize that space is a strategic dimension and we must engage with it, and better earlier than later," emphasized the minister. This involves issues such as data security and satellite security, as well as the defense against attacks on communication.
The newly established Space Command of the Bundeswehr is responsible for planning and executing space operations. Among its tasks are the protection and monitoring of satellites and the observation of hazardous space debris.
Pistorius spoke of a "pioneering work" that the soldiers in Uedem would be carrying out. "They are dealing with a space that most people, and I would have included myself ten or five years ago, still primarily view as the setting for science fiction films," Pistorius said to the soldiers and soldiers he spoke to in private.
Already in the morning, the Defense Minister informed himself about the work of the Air Force in Rhineland-Palatinate. Since Wednesday, Pistorius has visited selected Bundeswehr bases throughout Germany. According to the Defense Ministry, he intends to inform himself about the capabilities of the troops during his summer vacation and gain a direct impression of their readiness.
- Minister Pistorius highlighted the need for a proactive approach in IT-Security and Space Security, stating, "It's better to get involved earlier rather than later in securing our satellites and data."
- As part of his visit to the Bundeswehr Space Command, Pistorius underscored the importance of Germany having military control over satellite operations and strengthening its position in space.
- The new Space Command of the Bundeswehr, under Pistorius's security policy, is tasked with planning and executing space operations, protecting and monitoring satellites, and observing hazardous space debris.
- In his discussions with the soldiers at the Space Command, Pistorius recognized the pioneering work they were doing in the field, stating, "Science fiction is no longer the primary association for most people regarding space, but this is clearly changing."
