The Dutch Armed Forces are planning to send no less than four new satellites into orbit to track activity on the battlefield and in enemy territory from space. The decision seeks to ensure the Netherlands has independent access to sensitive intelligence data, in a bid to cut reliance on the United States, which controls over half of all the satellites in orbit.
5 months Ago
Space-Age Surveillance
Developed by the Finnish company ICEYE, the satellites will orbit 600 kilometers above the Earth and visit the same spot on the ground up to 15 times a day. Armed with high-tech radar, these satellites can spot troop movements and observe landscapes not just at any time of the day, but in any weather.
“We can precisely see what’s going on if there’s the threat of war,” Air Force Commander André Steur said.
The radar systems will also help civilians, to monitor water levels in dikes, for example, he added.
Increasing Dutch Intelligence Independence
The satellite images will be assessed by the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD). Peter Reesink, the director of the MIVD, emphasized the need for oversight of national intelligence resources.
“If we want data from a place that we care about, it’s very effective to control your own satellites,” he said.
Four years ago the Dutch launched their first experimental satellite. The imminent deployment of an additional four is the next major leap in military and civilian intelligence capability, with strategic implications and potential for innovation across many sectors.
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