Space Policy Directorate: MoD answers key questions

At the end of March, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine announced the establishment of the Space Policy Directorate.  The primary objective of the new Directorate is to consolidate internal and external capabilities to advance Ukraine’s military space sector. This event has raised several important questions. The Ministry of Defence addresses the most frequently asked questions.

What is the military space domain?

Military space refers to using space technologies, infrastructure, and assets to meet military needs and objectives. This does not involve weapons in space but primarily focuses on using satellites and space systems. In modern warfare, control of space and development of space capabilities have become critically important. That is why many countries are establishing dedicated space commands or forces.

 Why does the Defence Forces of Ukraine require space capabilities?

Currently, Ukraine has three key needs in the space domain:

1. Satellite communications. This is one of the most critical needs of modern armed forces. The first target of any aggressor is the communications infrastructure. Without it, the military loses its command and control system. Satellite communications are also a key enabler for long-range drone operations.
2. Intelligence/Reconnaissance Satellite data enables the detection of enemy movements, analysis of their logistical routes, force composition and concentrations, and the identification of vulnerabilities. This forms the foundation of effective operational planning.
3. Early warning of a missile threat. Timely detection of missile launches is critical for the effective operation of air defense systems and for saving the lives of both military personnel and civilians. The military must detect threats instantly to allow time for a response. Satellites make it possible to build a system that can provide much earlier warnings of aerial threats.

What is the Space Policy Directorate?

The Ministry of Defence has declared its readiness to assume a leading role in developing Ukraine’s national military space sector, as outlined in the Law of Ukraine ‘On Space Activities.’ The Ministry of Defence established the Space Policy Directorate to achieve this.

The Space Policy Directorate is a center of expertise that will ensure coordinated efforts in the military space domain and serve as a platform for engagement with all participants in the space ecosystem. These participants include:

• The military command bodies of the Security and Defence Forces — primary users of space-derived operational outputs;
• State Space Agency of Ukraine;
• Other government institutions involved in the space domain;
• Partner countries, through joint programs and data sharing;
• Commercial enterprises developing innovative technologies and satellite systems, and providing space-based monitoring services;
• The scientific community — universities, R&D centers, and laboratories focused on advancing new solutions.

What are the specific tasks of the new Directorate? 

The Directorate’s activities cover three primary areas:

1. Enhancing the regulatory framework. The Directorate will prepare draft regulatory acts to support the development of the military’s space capabilities. The objective is to develop an efficient and adaptable policy, minimize bureaucracy, and swiftly address the challenges of war.
2. Technological Expertise. The Directorate will collaborate with scientific institutions, R&D centers, and developers to identify promising technologies, experts, and trends for integration into the defense sector.
3. Strategic coordination of space-based support for combat operations. The Directorate will establish partnerships with international government and commercial entities, conclude contracts for technology and data provision, and, relying on battlefield data, efficiently recommend resource allocation and develop transparent procedures for requesting space services. This will expedite the military’s access to required technologies.

How does the enemy use satellites against Ukraine?

In 2015, russia established the Aerospace Forces by merging the Air Force and Aerospace Defence Forces. They operate military and dual-use satellite systems, launch spacecraft into orbit, monitor space, and detect and neutralize threats originating in or from space. 

The adversary has deployed approximately 200 satellites and 150,000 military personnel to operate this system. In contrast, Ukraine currently has only one satellite, the “People’s Satellite,” developed by ICEYE and acquired through donations to the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation. Thanks to this satellite and support from partners, Ukraine’s military can counter threats. However, this remains insufficient — Ukraine needs to transition from the role of consumer to that of a full-fledged player in the space sector. Moreover, the Ministry of Defence is committed to establishing Ukraine’s active role in the space domain.

Which other countries are developing their space capabilities?

Over the past decade, an increasing number of countries have recognized space as critical to their national security. They are working to secure their presence and safeguard their interests in orbit.

Besides russia, China has been developing its military space program since 2015. In 2019, the United States established a separate branch of its Armed Forces — the United States Space Force (USSF) — responsible for protecting national interests and deterring aggression through operations in space. In 2023 alone, they conducted 74 rocket launches; in 2024, they set a record with 93 launches.

In 2019, India established its Defence Space Agency (DSA) under the Ministry of Defence. The United Kingdom, France, Italy, Poland, and Germany also maintain their own space forces. In 2021, Spain, Czechia, Japan, Taiwan, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan joined them.

How many personnel will the Space Policy Directorate include, and what qualifications will they have?

The Directorate team is nearly in place and will comprise about 20 experts with strong specialization and operational experience. The team will include military lawyers, technical experts (in areas such as satellite communications, remote sensing, navigation, geospatial support, and space situational awareness), and specialists responsible for interacting with suppliers and users in the defense sector.

What are the budgets for space defense programs around the world?

In 2024, governments worldwide spent a record $135 billion on space programs, with $73 billion (54%) allocated to defense needs. This reflects the growing importance of space as a strategic domain in national security.

The United States continues to lead in terms of funding, with the Space Force receiving a $29.6 billion budget for 2025. At the same time, their share of global military space spending has decreased from 75% in 2000 to 59% today, as more countries actively invest in defense-related space programs. In particular, large-scale initiatives are emerging in Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and New Zealand.

These amounts may seem significant, but space still accounts for a relatively small share of total defense spending: for the U.S., only about 3.5% of the United States Department of Defense. This confirms that space is no longer a luxury — it is becoming increasingly accessible, including for Ukraine.

How is the Space Policy Directorate funded?

The Space Policy Directorate will be funded within the existing budget allocated to the Ministry of Defence by reallocating funds. The establishment of the Directorate does not require additional funding and does not affect the overall size of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Decisions regarding the financing of specific projects are made within the framework of the overall defense budget. Procurement of space technologies or the initiation of related programs may proceed only after the Ministry of Defence prepares project justifications and receives approval from the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.