The United States and France have successfully completed a joint military satellite maneuver, marking a significant step in allied space operations. The exercise, which involved two satellites operating in close proximity, was the first of its kind to be jointly planned and executed under the framework of Operation Olympic Defender, a multinational space defense initiative led by US Space Command.
France's Space Command confirmed the operation, highlighting it as a demonstration of the two nations' ability to coordinate complex actions in orbit. The maneuver underscores a deepening commitment among allies to safeguard their interests in space, an increasingly contested domain.
Key Takeaways
- US and French military satellites performed a joint rendezvous and proximity operation (RPO).
- This was the first such maneuver jointly planned under the multinational Operation Olympic Defender.
- The operation demonstrates the growing integration and capability of allied space forces.
- France officially joined Operation Olympic Defender in October 2024.
A New Level of Allied Integration in Space
The successful operation represents a new chapter in Franco-American space cooperation. While the two nations have conducted a bilateral maneuver before, this recent exercise was unique because it was fully integrated within the Operation Olympic Defender warplanning and execution structure. France formally joined this multinational coalition in October 2024, signaling a strong commitment to collective space defense.
In a statement, the French Space Command described the event as a "great demonstration of our ability to respond and maneuver jointly in orbit." The command further noted that the exercise illustrates France’s capacity to conduct dynamic operations to deter potential adversaries from threatening its space assets.
A spokesperson for US Space Command echoed these sentiments, confirming the bilateral nature of the operation. "This recent bilateral operation demonstrates not only our coalition’s capacity to plan and execute dynamic and responsible space operations, but our steadfast commitment to stand shoulder-to-shoulder in defense of our shared interests in space," the spokesperson stated.
What is a Rendezvous and Proximity Operation?
The exercise centered on a technique known as a rendezvous and proximity operation, or RPO. This involves two spacecraft maneuvering very close to one another in orbit. RPOs are highly complex and require precise control and communication.
These maneuvers are critical for a range of potential military missions, including:
- Inspection: Assessing the status or capabilities of another satellite, whether friendly or otherwise.
- Servicing: Performing on-orbit repairs, refueling, or upgrades to extend the life of valuable space assets.
- Debris Removal: Capturing and de-orbiting space junk that poses a threat to operational satellites.
- Defensive Posturing: Positioning a satellite to protect a high-value asset from a potential threat.
The ability to perform RPOs effectively is a key indicator of an advanced spacefaring nation. By practicing these maneuvers together, the US and France are refining their shared tactics and procedures for potential real-world scenarios.
The Growing Importance of Operation Olympic Defender
Operation Olympic Defender is a US-led initiative designed to strengthen deterrence, optimize space operations, and prevent the spread of conflict into the space domain. It brings together key allies to share intelligence, coordinate activities, and develop common operating principles.
Who is in Operation Olympic Defender?
The coalition currently includes six allied nations alongside the United States:
- Australia
- Canada
- France
- Germany
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
This group represents some of the most capable spacefaring nations among US allies, working together to ensure a stable and secure space environment.
The inclusion of France last year was a significant expansion of the program. The recent joint RPO is the first tangible outcome of this expanded partnership, moving beyond policy agreements to integrated, on-orbit action. The United Kingdom is the only other partner nation known to have conducted a similar joint RPO with the United States, which took place in September.
During that operation, private space tracking firm COMSPOC identified the satellites involved. It reported that a US Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP) satellite, USA-271, maneuvered to within 13 kilometers (8.1 miles) of the UK’s SKYNET 5-A military communications satellite. The specific assets used in the Franco-American operation have not been publicly disclosed.
A Proactive Stance in a Contested Domain
Military officials emphasize that these exercises are about deterrence and defense, not aggression. The goal is to demonstrate a credible, unified capability that would make any potential adversary think twice before acting against allied interests in space. Satellites are crucial for modern life, underpinning everything from global communications and financial transactions to navigation and national security.
A US Space Command spokesperson explained that refining common tactics through combined operations is a vital part of maturing the multinational force. The command is focused on evolving the partnership into an "integrated, operational team that’s ready to collectively respond to threats in the domain, if needed."
Fact: The first joint US-France RPO took place concurrently with France joining Operation Olympic Defender, but it had been planned separately as a bilateral exercise. This new maneuver is the first to be planned from the ground up within the coalition's framework.
As more nations and commercial entities operate in space, the domain is becoming increasingly congested and complex. Alliances like Operation Olympic Defender are seen as essential for establishing norms of responsible behavior and ensuring that space remains accessible for peaceful purposes.
While US Space Command did not comment on plans for future operations with other partners, a senior Space Force official previously indicated that early discussions were underway. The success of the maneuvers with the UK and now France sets a clear precedent for deeper space integration among all seven member nations, solidifying a collective defense posture that extends from Earth into orbit.