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The People's Satellite

This post at The War Zone highlights the transformative impact of space-based assets on modern warfare, as demonstrated by Ukraine’s use of a crowd-funded ICEYE satellite. Over the past two years, this single satellite, along with access to dozens more, has enabled Ukraine to identify and destroy more than 1,500 Russian targets worth billions of dollars. The satellite’s synthetic aperture radar technology allows for all-weather, day-and-night imaging, piercing through camouflage and cloud cover to reveal enemy positions, equipment, and infrastructure. This capability has dramatically enhanced Ukraine’s ability to conduct precision strikes and gather critical intelligence, showcasing how access to space-based reconnaissance can level the playing field in asymmetric conflicts. The success of this program underscores the growing importance of space assets in modern warfare, not just for major powers but also for smaller nations and even non-state actors who can now leverage commercial satellite technology to gain significant tactical and strategic advantages.