Defence space awareness programme extended

The Joint Commercial Operations (JCO) programme is a commercial-military initiative that provides unclassified information that can be used for the protection and defence of satellites.

The Government has approved the NZDF’s extended involvement and the transition of the management to make it an ongoing part of NZDF core business.

“The programme has become an important pillar in New Zealand’s space security,” says Wing Commander Matt Tristram, Commanding Officer of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s No. 62 Squadron, which was recently reestablished to become the country’s space squadron. 

“As the space sector takes off it is important we contribute to the protection of space-based infrastructure, which ensures New Zealanders can access a range of critical services from communications to weather observation and financial transactions.

“As space becomes more congested and contested, we must work with like-minded partners to safeguard space. 

“Our participation in this programme has enhanced our space domain awareness, expanded our space-related skillset, strengthened our international partnerships and demonstrated our commitment to protecting critical space-based infrastructure.” 

New Zealand joined the United States-led programme two years ago. Eight members of No. 62 Squadron work in shifts to coordinate the Pacific regional cell from RNZAF Base Auckland.

More than 20 nations are involved in the programme, which works round the clock to monitor satellite movements and provide unclassified reports to researchers, commercial operators and governments throughout the world.