Why satellites are important for the military? Because they provide a wide range of capabilities, including communication, navigation, surveillance, and intelligence gathering. They allow military forces to communicate over long distances and in remote locations, navigate accurately in unfamiliar terrain, and gather information on enemy forces and assets.
Additionally, satellites can be used for missile defence, early warning systems, and weather forecasting. Overall, satellites greatly enhance the military’s ability to operate effectively and make informed decisions.
The Star reports that Malaysia should investigate utilizing state-of-the-art satellite technology for its national defense system, as many countries, particularly major powers, have already made significant advancements in this area.
The Director-General of Cyber and Electromagnetic Defense for the Malaysian Armed Forces, Rear Admiral Datuk Shamsuddin Ludin, emphasized the need to harness local expertise to ensure safe utilization of satellite technology in the national defense system, including weapon systems.
When questioned about the actions of the major nations of the globe, particularly China, who are thought to be upgrading their military technology through satellites, he responded as follows:
Viewed from the perspective of world defence analysis, there is an increase in weaponry capabilities. To what extent it is implemented (including the use of satellite weapons), we do not know, since all powers talk about a peaceful world.
Therefore, it is important that we use satellite (technology) safely, including transmission of information and the security features used. We need to determine that the technology is our own (home-developed) and not from a foreign country.
Shamsuddin announced that the Armed Forces will support Malaysian Space Agency’s (MYSA) efforts in introducing new satellite-based technology for the national defence system through providing input to MYSA to be included in the National Space Policy 2023 (DAN 2030) and by having a representative in the agency.
He also expressed confidence in MYSA’s current direction towards implementing new satellite technology for the national defense system.
