The United States and France are preparing for a second joint military satellite mission, deepening their strategic partnership as satellite security becomes a central focus for Western allies.
Leaders in Washington and Paris have called space the new frontier for defense cooperation, citing China’s accelerating push to expand its military activity in orbit.
Growing evidence of Chinese advancements has prompted high-level coordination between the U.S. and France, according to Lieutenant General Douglas Schiess of U.S. Space Forces-Space.
He confirmed that the two nations are collaborating to enhance intelligence gathering and prepare for potential on-orbit challenges.
Why Are the US and France Teaming Up Again?
This is not the first time the United States and France have collaborated. Their previous satellite operation last year was deemed a success and encouraged continued partnership.
Both nations share concerns about persistent security threats in space, particularly those stemming from the increased activity of Chinese satellites.
Bilateral coordination reflects a shared urgency to keep pace with evolving military technologies.
Schiess emphasized that future partnerships might also involve other allies, responding to an environment where space assets play a vital role in both defense and civilian systems.
Did you know?
Multinational Force-Operation Olympic Defender is a U.S.-led coalition for allied space security. It now includes Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand, and the UK.
How Will the Joint Satellite Mission Work?
US-French operations extend beyond static satellite deployments. These missions include complex tasks known as rendezvous and proximity operations, in which allied satellites maneuver close to one another to inspect, validate, or reposition assets. Such maneuvers require precise coordination for safety and success.
The Pentagon’s upcoming mission follows similar operations that have seen U.S. and allied satellites validate their systems in geostationary orbit, which is located approximately 36,000 kilometers above Earth.
Recent activity included a U.S. satellite examining the British SKYNET 5A system, helping to confirm its operational status and resilience.
What Is Driving Allied Space Cooperation?
Space is increasingly viewed as a contested domain where collective defense is essential. The planned mission will be the Pentagon’s third known joint satellite operation with an ally.
Alliances, such as the Multinational Force-Operation Olympic Defender, focus on protecting shared military interests and deterring potential adversarial moves.
This coalition, led by the U.S., counts members from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Together, these nations aim to assert their capabilities in space and defend against possible attempts to disrupt satellites critical to communication, navigation, and reconnaissance.
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How Fast Is China Expanding Its Military Space Presence?
China’s presence in orbit has grown by over 900% since 2015, with more than 1,189 satellites in operation by mid-2025. U.S. officials warn that China’s capability development, which includes maneuverable spacecraft and anti-satellite weapons, represents the most significant threat to Western space assets.
At recent security conferences, Schiess stated that China brings new capabilities online almost monthly, increasing the risk to allied military systems.
Chinese military doctrine considers counterspace operations crucial for deterring U.S. actions during potential regional conflicts.
What Can We Expect for Allied Space Operations Next?
The US-France space alliance is expected to deepen as more complex missions are pursued. Plans are in place to expand operations through further allied participation, mirroring recent U.S.-UK maneuver exercises and validating readiness for future scenarios.
The focus will remain on intelligence, persistent monitoring, and the development of technology that can adapt to rapidly changing orbital realities. The trajectory of allied cooperation in space is clear and forward-facing.
As competitors introduce new capabilities and weapons systems, joint operations like those planned by the US and France will shape the long-term stability and security of critical space assets.
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