New Zealand to Tighten Control on Satellite Monitoring Amid Security Concerns

Wellington: In response to growing security risks, New Zealand announced plans to introduce new legislation in 2025 that will regulate who can use the country as a base for monitoring satellites. The government’s decision follows concerns raised by the nation’s intelligence services regarding potential foreign influence and military interests in space infrastructure development within New Zealand.

The South Pacific island’s strategic location and clear skies make it an ideal location for satellite operations, drawing attention from entities like the European Space Agency. However, New Zealand’s National Intelligence Service flagged the issue in September, revealing that some foreign organizations had approached local businesses with plans to establish space monitoring facilities. While these entities initially claimed the infrastructure would serve peaceful research purposes, further investigations found that the developments could have supported foreign military activities, possibly undermining New Zealand’s security interests.

Although the intelligence report did not specify which country or countries posed the greatest threat, it highlighted concerns over China, which has long been regarded as a complex intelligence challenge. However, the report also noted that other nations engage in activities that may harm New Zealand’s national interests. The country’s government, while declining to name specific threats, expressed a firm commitment to protecting its sovereignty and security.

Space Minister Judith Collins emphasized that the new regulations would ensure that entities involved in space infrastructure development align with New Zealand’s values and national interests, particularly concerning national security. “The new regulations are intended to prevent the establishment or use of ground-based space infrastructure by entities whose values do not align with ours,” Collins stated.

As a member of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network, which includes the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, New Zealand’s role in space is becoming increasingly important. While its commercial space industry is still small, it has seen rapid growth with government backing, particularly in satellite technology. The new laws are expected to shape the future of this industry, providing greater oversight and security in an era of rising geopolitical tensions in space.

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The move comes at a time when other nations are also tightening regulations around space activities, with national security concerns and the militarization of space becoming key drivers of policy changes. New Zealand’s approach highlights the growing importance of space as both a commercial and strategic asset.