Navigating the future of global defence and space integration
March 20, 2025
Air Marshal Allan Paul Marshall, Air and Space Commander for the Royal Air Force (RAF), delivered a compelling address on the final day of the Farnborough International Space Show. As the UK solidifies its position as a global space power, Marshall called for greater collaboration, technological advancements, and strategic foresight in navigating the increasingly contested space domain.
Reflecting on his first year in the role, Marshall expressed both excitement and fascination regarding the challenges and opportunities within the space sector. He noted that space has long played a critical role in both civilian and military infrastructure, with everyday reliance on satellites for communication, navigation, and intelligence gathering. “They may not realise it, but everyone in the UK uses approximately 40 satellites daily,” he highlighted, underlining the indispensable nature of space-based assets.
The military’s dependence on space-based capabilities continues to grow, with strategic defence reviews reinforcing the need for enhanced space command and control. Marshall reaffirmed the importance of UK Space Command, now in its fourth year, as a cornerstone of national security. “Space Command has delivered initial operating capability and significantly increased awareness of space across the defence sector. The next step is embedding it fully within military operations and maximising capability for the front line,” he said.
International partnerships remain a key priority for the UK’s space strategy. “Collaboration with allies, particularly through initiatives such as the Combined Space Operations initiative, Operation Olympic Defender through NATO and other frameworks, has strengthened the UK’s positioning in the global space arena,” Marshall stated.
However, as space becomes more contested, Marshall warned of continually emerging and diversifying threats with the current geopolitical unrest the most dangerous. “Some nations are working to secure their access to space, while others are preparing to deny it to others, including the UK,” he cautioned. The growing militarisation of space, alongside commercial expansion, is increasing congestion in orbit, necessitating proactive management.
To ensure the UK remains competitive in space, Marshall identified three core priorities: space control and ensuring our access to space, decision advantage in terms of satellite communications, data relays and resilience, and global sensing and strike capabilities. “Control of space is essential. If we lose access, the effects will be manifestly increased. Space control is a prerequisite for military operations and our ability to communicate and navigate,” he explained. Furthermore, satellite communications and real-time data relay are crucial for modern warfare, allowing rapid decision-making and precision targeting.
Marshall also stressed the importance of integrating military, governmental, and industrial efforts to develop resilient space infrastructure. “A national strategic approach is essential. Political, military, and industrial sectors must work together to build and sustain our space capabilities and ensure more skilled, informed people are dispersed across the military,” he asserted. He also emphasised the need to accelerate procurement processes to keep pace with technological advancements, particularly in response to rapidly evolving security challenges.
Concluding his address, Marshall called for deeper international collaboration and industry partnerships, recognising that no nation can navigate the complexities of space alone. “We are at a pivotal moment. Now is the time for governments, military organisations, and industries to get together both on a national and international level to align their efforts. The challenges ahead are clear, but UK Space Command is ready to tackle them head-on.”
