Payload reported that UK-based startup Shield Space formed the UK Space Superiority Coalition to develop commercial orbital defense capabilities as the government seeks to protect UK and allied space interests.
The UK government’s 2026 Space Strategy defines its “Control of Space Requirement” as the ability to gain and maintain freedom of action and maneuver in, from and through space, protect UK and allied space interests, and deny adversaries those same freedoms. The strategy calls for combining space-domain awareness, command and control, and layered response options. It says the Ministry of Defence is investing £880 million over fiscal years 2026/27 to 2029/30 in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and Space Control activities.
Payload named AstroAnalytica, Goonhilly, Magdrive, Mutable Tactics, Optera and Third Planet Orbital among coalition members. The outlet described Project SPEAR as the group’s proposed first demonstration, intended to test a shared approach using member companies’ technologies against threats in orbit. Payload reported that the UK government has not approved it.
The coalition’s proposed work areas include autonomy, guidance and RPO; propulsion and spacecraft platforms; space-domain awareness; battle management and command and control; in-orbit servicing and sustainment; and effectors, Payload reported. The outlet said the initial focus would be on non-kinetic capabilities, without naming specific systems.
Shield Space co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Dan Molland told Payload the coalition was created “so we can deliver a space-based carrier strike.” Payload also reported that Molland cited limited options for Western militaries facing threats to satellites.
The participating companies are proposing roles in a commercial defense effort, but Payload reported no contract awards or Project SPEAR budget. The strategy’s £880 million figure covers broader Ministry of Defence activities and is not identified as funding for the project.
Via Satellite reported that tracking firm LeoLabs observed Russian satellite COSMOS 2612 approach ICEYE-X36 in October. LeoLabs said the observation did not establish hostile intent. Payload said government approval for Project SPEAR remains pending and gave no timetable for a decision.
