Rep. Panetta Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Increase Satellite Security and Counter Space Threats Posed by Iran

Monterey, CA - United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced legislation to strengthen Middle East satellite technology and security by countering threats posed by Iran and its proxies in space. The bipartisan, bicameral Space Technology and Regional Security(STARS) Act would require the Department of Defense to develop a strategy and establish a data-sharing agreement with our Middle East partners to defend against hostile Iranian space activities, which could include disrupting critical satellite communications and GPS navigation.

This legislation has been included in the House and Senate versions of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2025 and is co-introduced with Representatives Zach Nunn (IA-03), Brad Schneider (IL-10), and David Trone (MD-06). Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are leading the Senate's version.

This year, Iran has expanded its space-based capabilities, including placing military satellites into orbit with the help of Russia. Iran's satellite program could provide more options for staging attacks against U.S. bases, allies, and interests in the Middle East, including the use of lasers and jammers to interrupt military and commercial space systems.

"Iran not only threatens the security situation on the ground in the Middle East, it now has the ability to disrupt our satellite communication and GPS navigation systems in outer space," said Rep. Panetta. "This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would establish a new integrated framework of space security assets to counter these actions and fortify the United States and its allies' communications and navigation capabilities in the Middle East and around the globe. We cannot allow malign actors in the region to gain a launching pad for attacks that could potentially leave our nation and its partners in the dark."

"Iran and its proxies will stop at nothing to continue their reign of terror across the globe," said Rep Nunn. "As Iran looks to space as the next frontier, we must take steps to counter its aggression and neutralize this growing threat. By creating an intelligence sharing agreement with our allies, we can effectively counter Iran's attempts to destabilize both the Middle East and the rest of the world."

"The STARS Act represents a critical step in strengthening our regional partnerships to confront emerging threats from Iran's satellite and space capabilities," said Rep. Schneider. "By collaborating with our allies in the Middle East, we're building a robust defense framework to ensure that our communication and navigation systems remain secure. This bill reaffirms our commitment to peace and stability in the region, leveraging our shared values and strategic partnerships fostered through the Abraham Accords."

"Now, more than ever, Iran poses a threat to security and stability in the Middle East. History makes clear that we must work together to ensure the continued safety and peace in the region," said Rep. Trone. "The STARs Act symbolizes the spirit of collaboration fostered by the Abraham Accords and signifies a critical measure in satellite security that would help countries defend against Iranian threats. I urge my colleagues to support the protection of innocent lives."

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