In 2025, space has become a pivotal domain for military operations. Nations are investing heavily in satellite technologies to enhance communication, navigation, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. This article delves into five prominent military satellite systems: the United States’ AEHF, Russia’s GLONASS, China’s Yaogan, India’s GSAT, and Europe’s Galileo.
Top 5 Military Satellites and Space Assets in 2025
| Satellite System | Country/Region | Primary Function | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| AEHF | United States | Secure military communications | Jam-resistant, global coverage |
| GLONASS | Russia | Navigation and timing | Encrypted military signals, global reach |
| Yaogan | China | Reconnaissance and surveillance | Optical/SAR imaging, ELINT capabilities |
| GSAT | India | Military communications | Multi-band secure links for naval forces |
| Galileo | European Union | Navigation and timing | Encrypted PRS for government/military use |
United States: Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF)
Secure and Resilient Communications
The Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) system is the U.S. Department of Defense’s next-generation satellite communication system. It provides global, secure, protected, and jam-resistant communications for high-priority military ground, sea, and air assets. Operating in the extremely high-frequency (EHF) range, AEHF ensures survivable communications even in contested environments. The constellation comprises multiple satellites in geosynchronous orbit, offering enhanced data rates and coverage compared to its predecessors.
Russia: GLONASS
Independent Global Navigation
GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System) is Russia’s counterpart to the U.S. GPS. It provides global positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services for both civilian and military users. The system consists of a constellation of satellites in medium Earth orbit, ensuring global coverage. For military applications, GLONASS offers encrypted signals to support navigation and targeting for various platforms, including missiles and aircraft.
China: Yaogan Satellite Series
Strategic Reconnaissance and Surveillance
China’s Yaogan satellite series is a collection of remote sensing satellites used primarily for military purposes. These satellites are equipped with optical imaging, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT) payloads. They support China’s military by providing real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, enabling monitoring of land and maritime domains. The Yaogan constellation enhances China’s situational awareness and targeting precision.
India: GSAT Series
Dedicated Military Communications
India’s GSAT (Geostationary Satellite) series includes satellites specifically designed for military communication. Notably, GSAT-7 serves the Indian Navy, providing secure, real-time communication between ships, submarines, and aircraft. These satellites operate in multiple frequency bands, ensuring robust and encrypted communication links. The GSAT series strengthens India’s network-centric warfare capabilities and reduces reliance on foreign communication assets.
Europe: Galileo
Autonomous Navigation System
Galileo is the European Union’s global navigation satellite system, developed to provide high-precision positioning and timing services. While primarily civilian, Galileo includes a Public Regulated Service (PRS) designed for government-authorized users, including military and emergency services. PRS offers encrypted, robust signals resistant to jamming and spoofing, ensuring reliable navigation support for European defense operations.
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