New Delhi, December 7 (NationPress) Almost four years into the ongoing invasion by Russia, satellite networks have become essential for Ukraine, ensuring communication remains intact despite relentless electronic and physical assaults.

China, closely monitoring the significance of these networks in contemporary warfare, is actively researching methods to disrupt such systems in potential future confrontations.

A report from Dark Reading references a recent academic study published in Chinese, which involved researchers from two prominent universities exploring the feasibility of jamming extensive satellite constellations like Starlink.

Their findings suggest that while it is achievable, it requires immense resources.

Specifically, the analysis indicates that to effectively interrupt Starlink signals over an expanse equivalent to Taiwan, it would necessitate deploying between 1,000 and 2,000 drones designed for electronic jamming, according to the report.

This research serves as a reminder that satellite networks are likely to be primary targets in any military engagement involving China, particularly concerning Taiwan.

Clemence Poirier, a senior researcher in cyber defense at the Center for Security Studies at ETH Zurich, emphasizes that governments and satellite operators should treat this research as a crucial alert.

Organizations must enhance their systems, segregate civilian from military infrastructure, and adjust their threat assessments accordingly.

Satellite networks are increasingly regarded as high-value targets due to their dual role in facilitating military communication and supporting civilian connectivity.

The report further notes that navigation systems are often subjected to jamming or spoofing in conflict zones, while cyberattacks aimed at hijacking satellite orientation and positioning have become more prevalent.

Electronic and cyber intrusions are attractive options for adversaries, as they present lower risks of escalation compared to missile attacks on orbiting assets.

Experts argue that “gray-zone” tactics enable nations to test vulnerabilities without crossing critical thresholds.

Constellations such as OneWeb, which Taiwan employs for backup communications, along with Starlink, which operates nearly 9,000 satellites in low earth orbit, are designed to endure significant disruptions.

Their extensive scale and mobility complicate them as targets, driving adversaries to investigate innovative strategies like distributed jammers and synchronized drone swarms.

Meanwhile, China is advancing its own satellite constellations while enhancing its offensive capabilities.

Additionally, recent years have seen Russia, China, and the US testing anti-satellite weaponry.

While no nation has yet used these weapons against another country’s spacecraft, the steady frequency of these tests underscores the strategic significance of space.

As global militaries adapt to more resilient space-based infrastructures, satellite constellations are quickly becoming pivotal to the dynamics of future conflicts.