New Zealand Introduces Legislation to Safeguard Space Infrastructure from Foreign Threats
New Zealand Introduces Legislation to Safeguard Space Infrastructure from Foreign Threats
New Zealand has taken a significant step to protect its national security by introducing new legislation aimed at preventing foreign actors from exploiting the country's ground-based space infrastructure. Minister for Space Judith Collins emphasized the “immediate need” to safeguard the nation from potential threats posed by external entities.
The new law, passed under urgency in parliament with cross-party support, was prompted by concerns over deceptive efforts by foreign actors over the past five years. These efforts, according to Collins, involved disguising affiliations with foreign militaries and misrepresenting intentions to gain access to New Zealand's space infrastructure for legitimate purposes.
“They have deliberately disguised their affiliations to foreign militaries and misrepresented their intentions,” Collins stated. “These risks have been managed through non-regulatory measures, but these are no longer sufficient.”
Collins also revealed that government security agencies had to intervene on multiple occasions to warn members of the space sector about dealing with representatives of foreign countries, whom she referred to as “the usual suspects.” While she did not name the specific countries involved, she noted, “I think we all know who does various things here.”
The legislation, part of an amendment to the Outer Space and High-altitude Activities Act, introduces a regulatory framework for ground-based space infrastructure. This includes tracking and controlling space objects, surveillance, identification of space objects, and satellite data reception. The law will also empower the space minister to authorize or deny applications for ground-based space infrastructure based on national security considerations.
According to a 2024 report by the Security Intelligence Service, a small number of entities had approached New Zealand organizations under the guise of civilian research, but their proposals were later found to potentially aid foreign military activities that could harm New Zealand's interests.
The new law is set to take effect next Tuesday, marking a pivotal moment in New Zealand's space policy. Collins noted that the geopolitical landscape has changed significantly in recent years, and she is committed to ensuring the government has the necessary tools to address national security concerns in the space sector.
With the passage of this law, New Zealand is reinforcing its stance on protecting its sovereignty in the rapidly evolving space domain, ensuring that its infrastructure remains secure and aligned with national interests.
