US and UK stage first joint on-orbit operation

U.S. and U.K. Space Commands carried out a coordinated on‑orbit rendezvous and proximity operation from Sept. 4–12, moving a U.S. satellite to inspect a British spacecraft in order to verify its condition and strengthen allied integration in space. The maneuver was conducted under the Multinational Force – Operation Olympic Defender framework, a U.S.-led coalition designed to unify combined space operations with close allies.

“This operation was a first of its kind for U.K. Space Command and represents a significant increase in operational capability,” said Maj. Gen. Paul Tedman, commander of U.K. Space Command. “Expertly executed with U.S. Space Command, I could not be more pleased or proud of the rapid progress we are making with our allies in Multinational Force – Operation Olympic Defender. We are now, with our allies, conducting advanced orbital operations to protect and defend our shared national and military interests in space.”

Officials said the joint maneuver validates long-running efforts to improve interoperability, information sharing and readiness among the coalition’s members. The U.K. was among the initial nations to join the MNF-OOD construct, and the latest activity was presented as a sign of the framework’s maturation.

“This coordinated maneuver between two allies validated the interoperability that’s foundational to our collective defense,” said Lt. Gen. Douglas Schiess, commander of U.S. Space Forces-Space and Combined Joint Force Space Component Command. “The confirmation of the MNF’s combined military might on-orbit delivers a credible deterrent in the increasingly contested space domain.”

Leaders emphasized that allied cooperation improves awareness in a crowded orbital environment and supports safe, responsible operations as well as preparation for potential crises.

“The success of this multidomain operation represents the warfighting advantage realized by employing our capabilities and expertise as one unified team,” said Gen. Stephen Whiting, commander of USSPACECOM and Multinational Force – Operation Olympic Defender. “Though our opponents may attempt to replicate the value of such cooperation, our partnerships are uniquely defined by not only the mutual goal of deterring aggression, but a shared pledge to fight and win shoulder-to-shoulder, if necessary.”

The commands did not disclose the identities of the satellites involved or the specific orbital regimes.