got geoint?

Our posts very much focus on geospatial intelligence programs impacting the United States, as well as our defense and intelligence communities. However, when last week’s news cycle included a bevy of international geospatial intelligence news, we took notice. And, we would like to share with you some of these stories:

On Monday, Dec. 15, V1 Newsletter asked, “What are the differences between North American and European geospatial initiatives and approaches?” We’ll let you peruse Jeff’s and Matt’s opinions, but we also wanted to give you a taste of news from around the globe as you think about this and other questions about the United State’s capabilities and resources.

In Europe, the EU is looking to enhance its satellite imaging capabilities. It is currently working on a new accord that will enable the European Union Satellite Center (EUSC) to access very-high-resolution day and night imagery from Helios II. In addition, the new satellites to be installed “will be powerful enough to allow the identification of the exact make of a car that is photographed from space.”

In Germany, the last of five German SAR Lupe radar reconnaissance satellites recently went online — with the first being launched in February 2006. The fifth satellite rounds out the core of a new European military satellite network with the German system integrating with the French Helios II. Germany and France are hoping that their efforts will attract other European nations to participate. Here’s the official press release for more information.

In other news, it seems that the U.S. Air Force’s Defense Support Program (DSP) satellite is experiencing some trouble. DSP-23 satellite is apparently drifting out of its high-altitude slot and a Russian space analyst tipped off the U.S. about the problem.

And, the Navy is sharing classified information, as well as its Maritime Domain Awareness system, with close allies to thwart the rising pirates off the coast of Africa.

In Canada, they are enhancing satellite imaging for spotting solutions, in real time, during the world’s natural disasters.

In addition, geospatial intelligence technologies are being touted as vital in fighting terrorism in the wake of the Mumbai attacks last month. India’s Technology Minister Kapil Sibal highlighted what-could-have-been if the nation was more prepared with geospatial technologies:

“With geospatial technology, our forces could have had a three-dimensional view of say the Taj hotel and how to access each room,” said Sibal. “You can get such information even on mobile phones. And with other operational devices like night-vision, security forces could have easily located the enemy. Such technology is already available.”

In addition, India is working on a piece of legislation that makes it easier to share geospatial data among various departments and stakeholders in its government.

Tags: European Union, geospatial intelligence, German SAR Lupe, India Attacks, Mumbai