Intel agencies caution about foreign nations aiming to acquire technology from US space companies

The private American space industry has been alerted by U.S. intelligence agencies about the targeted efforts of foreign intelligence agencies to steal or undermine critical technologies. In a bulletin released on Friday, the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, the FBI, and the Air Force’s Office of Special Investigations urged the industry to remain cautious of various tactics used by foreign entities to gain access to sensitive information. Joint ventures, acquisitions, facility visits, and employee recruitment were highlighted as potential avenues for infiltration.

The importance of the commercial space industry to the U.S. economy and national security was emphasized by the agencies, citing the increasing reliance of critical infrastructure on space-based assets. They also warned that foreign intelligence entities (FIEs) view U.S. space-related innovation and assets both as potential threats and valuable opportunities for acquiring vital technologies and expertise.

Although the bulletin did not specifically name any countries, an American counterintelligence official disclosed to Reuters that China and Russia are among the leading foreign intelligence threats to the industry.

The trio of agencies advised U.S. space companies to closely monitor suspicious incidents, establish insider threat programs, conduct thorough due diligence on suppliers and investors, and incorporate security requirements into contracts with third parties, among other recommended measures to mitigate risks.