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Foreign adversaries are engaging in cyber espionage campaigns against the US space industry, as stated in a joint warning by the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC), FBI, and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI). These foreign intelligence entities (FIEs) view the space industry as crucial to the economy and satellite networks as indispensable for various sectors such as emergency services, energy, finance, and telecommunications. These adversaries are likely to intensify efforts to steal space technology and carry out cyberattacks to disrupt the industry.

The US is the global leader in space investment, having provided more than 0 billion in the last decade. In contrast, China is the second-largest investor with around billion. FIEs aim to steal intellectual property and proprietary data from US space firms to benefit their own national security programs. They may also employ unfair business practices and state-backed resources to disadvantage US companies operating in the space industry.

US intelligence officials highlight China and Russia as leading threats to the US space industry. These threats range from attempts to collect sensitive data related to satellite payloads to disrupting US satellite communications capabilities, including critical services during emergencies. Adversaries may also attempt to influence international laws governing space to the detriment of US firms or exploit critical resources and supply chain dependencies.

The joint warning urges companies in the space industry to remain vigilant against infiltration attempts, such as cyberattacks and attempts to recruit technical experts. It advises implementing an insider threat program, tracking anomalies, and incorporating security requirements into third-party contracts. Companies are also encouraged to carry out thorough due diligence on third-party suppliers and foster an enterprise-wide security posture.

Cybersecurity in space is crucial, as a single device with malicious code can disrupt networking protocols used by spacecraft, aircraft, and industrial control systems, leading to unpredictable operations and potential failures. The US Space Force has requested a 0 million investment in cybersecurity as part of its 2024 budget. Additionally, the Space Force’s Delta 6 mission has added four squadrons to enhance cybersecurity and modernize the Satellite Control Network. The launch of the satellite Moonlighter earlier this summer aims to improve cybersecurity by providing a real-time target for penetration testing in space systems.

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