Russia has issued a stark warning to the United States, stating that the use of SpaceX's satellites for espionage could render them targets for military action. This follows revelations that SpaceX is constructing a spy satellite network for a US intelligence agency.
SpaceX's Classified Spy Satellite Program Draws Russian Ire, Highlights Private Sector's Role in National Security
Reuters reported that SpaceX is building a network of hundreds of spy satellites under a classified contract with a US intelligence agency. This demonstrates the growing relationship between Elon Musk's space company and national security agencies.
"We are aware of Washington's efforts to attract the private sector to serve its military space ambitions," Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters. Such systems "become a legitimate target for retaliatory measures, including military ones," Zakharova said.
SpaceX's $1.8 Billion Contract with NRO Marks Major Leap in Satellite Espionage Capabilities
The Verge reported that five sources familiar with the program say SpaceX is building a network of hundreds of spy satellites under a classified contract with a US intelligence agency. This demonstrates the growing ties between billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk's space company and national security organizations.
According to sources, SpaceX's Starshield business unit is building the network under a $1.8 billion contract signed in 2021 with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), an intelligence agency responsible for spy satellites.
The plans reveal the scope of SpaceX's involvement in US intelligence and military projects and a deeper Pentagon investment in massive, low-Earth orbiting satellite systems to support ground forces. If successful, the program, according to the sources, would significantly improve the US government's and military's ability to identify potential targets almost anywhere on the planet quickly.
According to the sources, if the program is successful, it will significantly improve the United States government and military's ability to quickly identify potential targets anywhere globally.
In February, the Wall Street Journal reported the existence of a $1.8 billion classified Starshield contract with an unknown intelligence agency without detailing the program's purposes.
According to Reuters, the SpaceX contract is for a powerful new spy system consisting of hundreds of satellites with Earth-imaging capabilities that can operate as a swarm in low orbits. Musk's company is collaborating with the NRO. Reuters could not determine when the new satellite network would be operational or which other companies are involved in the program through separate contracts.
NRO Aims for Unprecedented Global Surveillance Capabilities with SpaceX Partnership
SpaceX, the world's largest satellite operator, did not respond to multiple requests for comment on the contract, its role, and satellite launch details. The Pentagon forwarded a request for comment to the NRO and SpaceX.
In a statement, the NRO acknowledged its mission to develop a sophisticated satellite system and its partnerships with other government agencies, companies, research institutions, and nations. However, it declined to comment on Reuters' findings about SpaceX's involvement in the effort.
A spokesperson said, "The National Reconnaissance Office is developing the most capable, diverse, and resilient space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance system the world has ever seen."
According to the sources, the satellites can track ground targets and share the information with US intelligence and military officials. In theory, this would allow the United States government to quickly capture continuous imagery of activities on the ground almost anywhere, assisting intelligence and military operations, they added.
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