WASHINGTON - Chinese and Russian intelligence agencies are targeting American private space companies, attempting to steal critical technologies and preparing cyberattacks aimed at degrading US satellite capabilities during a conflict or emergency, according to a new warning by US intelligence agencies.
Space companies’ data and intellectual property could be at risk from attempts to break into computer networks, moles placed inside companies and foreign infiltration of the supply chain, officials said. “They see US space-related innovation and assets as potential threats, as well as valuable opportunities to acquire vital technologies and expertise.”
Intelligence agencies are increasingly dependent on the private-sector space industry, and US officials are worried about the interest Chinese and Russian spy services have shown in those companies, based on recent FBI investigations and intelligence collection on foreign intelligence plans.