24 June 2025
Australia’s enduring partnership with the United States in space security and innovation was front and centre during a recent visit by General Stephen N. Whiting, Commander of the United States Space Command.
The visit showcased Defence’s growing space capabilities, including 1 Space Surveillance Unit and the Joint Commercial Operations Cell which combines global commercial space domain awareness capabilities with military oversight from allies to support real-time detection and characterisation of space events.
It also took in emerging technologies developed in collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Group.
Chief of Joint Capabilities, Lieutenant General Susan Coyle, said Australia was committed to being a reliable and innovative contributor to global space operations.
“This visit is another step forward in building a truly integrated and trusted partnership in space,” Lieutenant General Coyle said.
“Australia and the United States share a common vision for a free and secure space environment, and together we are making that vision real through joint projects, shared planning, and advanced capability development.”
General Whiting’s visit also highlighted the progress made under the Enhanced Space Cooperation Initiative, as well as the ongoing development of the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC), a trilateral project with the United States, United Kingdom and Australia, which will deliver persistent and comprehensive space domain awareness
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to advancing common objectives through initiatives such as Operation Olympic Defender, with a focus on strengthening deterrence, increasing interoperability, and enhancing mission assurance in a contested and congested space environment.
“This visit underscored not just how far we’ve come, but how far we are prepared to go together, to ensure the space domain remains open, safe, and accessible for future generations,” Lieutenant General Coyle said.
“We look forward to our continued partnership with the United States, particularly in the space domain.”
