Satellite firm extends Middle East image delay to prevent use by US adversaries
By Cassell Bryan-Low and Joey Roulette
WASHINGTON, March 10 (Reuters) – California-based Planet Labs has expanded restrictions on access to Middle East imagery to prevent adversaries from using it to attack the United States and its allies; It’s a sign of how the expansion of commercial space business could impact conflicts.
Planet, which operates a large fleet of satellites imaging the Earth and sells frequently updated images to governments, companies and media, told customers on Monday it would extend the restrictions to 14 days, following a four-day delay imposed last week.
In a statement to Reuters, a Planet spokesperson said the move was temporary and “an effort to limit the uncontrolled distribution of images that could lead to unintentional access and use as tactical leverage by hostile actors.”
“This conflict is dynamic and unique in many respects, and Planet is therefore taking firm steps to ensure that our images do not contribute in any way to attacks against allies and NATO personnel and civilians,” the spokesperson said.
Some space experts say Iran may have access to commercial images through other U.S. rivals.
SPACE BATTLE ARENA
Militaries rely on space for everything from identifying targets, directing weapons and tracking missiles to communications. In a sign of space’s central role in modern warfare, U.S. officials last week said space forces were among the “first movers” in the operation against Iran.
A spokesman for U.S. Space Command declined to provide details of the capabilities it uses. Space Command is responsible for assisting with missile tracking, secure communications, and the use of Pentagon satellites as surveillance tools for U.S. and partner forces on the ground.
While high-quality satellite imagery is the preserve of advanced space powers, access to commercial satellite imagery has leveled the playing field, as Ukraine experienced in its war with Russia. Now satellite operators are using artificial intelligence to help accelerate the ability to analyze images and identify areas of interest.
“This expert analysis used to be the preserve of senior military analysts, but not anymore,” said Chris Moore, a retired British army air marshal and defense industry consultant.
“Ultimately, an all-seeing eye from space will be created, making it more difficult for military forces to hide and deception operations to be accomplished.”
(Reporting by Cassell Bryan-Low in London and Joey Roulette in Washington; Editing by Joe Brock and Stephen Coates)
