European union defense and security strategy for space and ground-based systems against hybrid threats

This article explores the Space Defense Strategy of the European Union (EU), building upon the recognition of Space as a crucial strategic domain within the EU's strategic Space compass. In the current geopolitical context, marked by increased power competition and intensified threats, the EU is proactively safeguarding its Space assets and strengthening its strategic autonomy. The central goal is to defend EU interests by deterring hostile Space activities. A pivotal aspect of this strategy is the development of methods and models to enhance the resilience of critical infrastructure to counter hybrid threats effectively. Considering the above, we adopted a Systematic Literature Review approach to identify relevant manuscripts and establish a robust conceptual framework for the EU Space Strategy in Security and Defense. The results revealed a conceptual framework encompassing three fundamental domains–hybrid threats, EU actions against threats, and an envisioned expansion of the Space strategy. The latter domain comes from the compelling need to fortify the EU's internal-external nexus emphasizing an approach that raises Space services to bolster Common Security and Defense Policy missions–this adaptive response addresses the nature of modern hybrid threats. From our perspective, the most effective solutions should cover all levels, addressing both domestic and international scopes.