According to European officials, the targeted satellites were launched years ago without modern onboard computers or encryption, leaving confidential command data vulnerable. Since its launch in 2023, Luch-2 has reportedly approached 17 European satellites closely, raising concerns that both Luch satellites are engaged in "signal intelligence" operations.
A senior European intelligence official told the FT that the Luch satellites are positioned within the narrow beam of data transmissions from ground stations, capturing unencrypted command information.
“Confidential information, including command data from European satellites, is not encrypted,” the official said, warning it could be recorded and later exploited to interfere with or even destroy satellites.
Western space agencies have repeatedly noted Luch-1 and Luch-2 engaging in risky maneuvers near important geostationary satellites serving Europe, the U.K., Africa, and the Middle East.
“Even if they cannot decrypt the messages, they can still extract a lot of information… They can map how the satellite is being used, for example, to determine the location of ground terminals,” said Norbert Puzin, senior orbital analyst at French company Aldoria.
Major Michael Traut, head of the German military space command, said Luch likely intercepted command communications, potentially allowing Russia to impersonate ground operators and send false instructions. Such interference could cause satellites to drift off course or even crash.
Belinda Marchand, chief scientist at Slingshot Aerospace, noted that Luch-2 is currently near Intelsat 39, a major geostationary satellite serving Europe and Africa. Analysts warn that data collected could also inform targeted ground-based jamming or hacking operations.
Experts caution that these maneuvers are part of a broader pattern of hybrid warfare by Russia in Europe, including undersea cable sabotage, and could expand into space-based operations. While Luch satellites were designed for civilian purposes like satellite television, officials say they carry significant military intelligence risks.