‘Prepare for Russian space war’

THE Royal Air Force is preparing for a space war after Russia successfully tested anti-satellite weapons which could shut down our military operations.

The RAF’s senior officer Sir Mike Wigston warned that Britain must catch up with its enemies otherwise Vladimir Putin could exploit our ‘complete reliance’ on space.

In recent months Russia has successfully tested an anti-satellite weapon.

Meanwhile, the UK has formed its first Space Command, which is led by the RAF.

The Command’s role is to enhance the country’s ability to defend its assets in space. It also intends to launch its first rocket into space next year. Air Chief Marshal Wigston said: ‘Russia has developed its anti-satellite capability, against its own satellites so far, having watched the UK and US operations and realised our complete reliance on space.’

Military communications are satellite dependent while soldiers and military vehicles, including aircraft, rely on GPS. Destruction of British satellites could also grind everyday life to a halt. More details are expected to be outlined today in a defence command paper – with up to £16.5billion being invested in new technologies.