Ukraine Proposes Creation of Cosmic Forces in Armed Forces Bill

Ukraine Eyes the Stars: Proposal for Cosmic Forces Gains Traction

In a bold move that could redefine national defense, Ukrainian MP Fedir Venislavskyi, a key member of the Verkhovna Rada's National Security and Defense Committee, has put forth a groundbreaking proposal: the establishment of the Ukrainian Armed Forces' Cosmic Forces. This visionary initiative has already been formally submitted as a bill to the Ukrainian parliament, signaling a serious commitment to future-proofing the nation's security architecture.

The idea has garnered support from the Minister of Defense, a crucial endorsement that lends significant weight to the proposal. While consultations with other ministries and organizations are pending, Venislavskyi shared insights with "Suspilne," emphasizing the multifaceted rationale behind this ambitious undertaking.

Why Cosmic Forces? A New Frontier for Defense

The core of the legislative proposal lies in enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities against threats emanating not just from land, but crucially, from space. This isn't solely about countering potential aggression from Russia; it's a strategic foresight against any nation that might pose a threat in the cosmic domain. The proposed Cosmic Forces aim to address several critical vulnerabilities:

• Addressing Space-Based Aggression: The reality of space warfare is no longer theoretical. Russia's use of the missile "Oreshnik," which traversed international airspace, serves as a stark reminder of the evolving nature of conflict. Ukraine recognizes the urgent need to develop robust countermeasures against such advanced threats.
• Joining the Global Ranks: A growing number of global powers, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, China, India, and Russia itself, already possess dedicated space forces. By establishing its own, Ukraine asserts its intent to be a player in this strategic arena, not merely a spectator.
• Harnessing National Potential: Ukraine boasts a rich legacy in space exploration and technology. The nation possesses the scientific acumen, technological infrastructure, and manufacturing capabilities to develop its own defense satellites. This self-sufficiency is paramount for national security.

Strategic Advantages: A Glimpse into the Future

The establishment of Cosmic Forces promises to unlock a range of critical capabilities for Ukraine:

• Early Warning Systems: Developing indigenous satellite technology would enable the creation of a sophisticated missile launch detection system, providing invaluable early warnings.
• Countering Space Threats: The ability to actively combat missile and space-based attacks will be significantly enhanced.
• Secure Communication Networks: Independent, protected satellite communication is vital for maintaining command and control, especially in times of conflict.
• Enhanced Intelligence Gathering: Leveraging its own satellite constellations will bolster Ukraine's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.

Leveraging Partnerships and Existing Infrastructure

Ukraine's strategic vision for space defense is not being built in isolation. The nation is actively fostering international collaborations, including ongoing space projects with European nations like Luxembourg, Poland, and the Czech Republic, as well as Sweden. Furthermore, Ukraine's participation in NASA's "Artemis" program, aimed at returning humans to the Moon, underscores its commitment to advancing in space exploration.

Crucially, Ukraine already possesses a foundational infrastructure. Existing ground stations and equipment are capable of independent satellite management. The recent establishment of a special Directorate of Space Policy within the Ministry of Defense is another significant step. This body is tasked with consolidating the efforts of state and private entities in the space sector, assessing the current state of national space infrastructure, and integrating space technologies into the broader defense system.

This development comes in the wake of another significant stride in Ukraine's defense modernization: the recent establishment of the Ukrainian Armed Forces' Unmanned Systems Forces. The law formally incorporating these forces was adopted by the Verkhovna Rada on September 3, 2024, and signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on September 16, 2024, demonstrating Ukraine's proactive approach to embracing new domains of warfare.