Interdependences Between Space and Cyberspace in a Context of Increasing Militarization and Emerging Weaponization of Outer Space—A French Perspective

Abstract

Cyber threats on space systems are becoming an area of interest and concern for space powers and are gradually taken into account in public policies. While most of the literature focuses on Anglo-Saxon countries, it remains to be investigated how cybersecurity risks are considered in French policies. The Space Defence Strategy, released in 2019, is the first French policy document that explicitly recognized the risk of cyberattacks on space systems. This chapter will explore the various interdependences between outer space and cyberspace in French defence policies, France’s interpretation of international law in cyberspace and its implications regarding cyberattacks on space systems. Finally, it will look into the French declaratory strategy in case of cyberattacks.