FT report alleges covert satellite use
Iran used a secret Chinese-built surveillance satellite to target US military bases in the Middle East during recent conflict operations, according to a report by the Financial Times.
The Chinese satellite system is said to involve the TEE-01B satellite, allegedly built by Chinese firm Earth Eye Co and acquired by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) after its launch.
Surveillance of US military sites
According to the report, Iranian military commanders used the satellite to monitor key US military installations, including bases in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain, and Iraq.
The Financial Times said it reviewed leaked military documents, satellite images, and orbital data suggesting coordinated surveillance activity ahead of and following drone strikes in March.
Locations reportedly tracked
The alleged satellite operation reportedly monitored the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan, and areas near the US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Manama, Bahrain.
The system is also said to have tracked the airport in Erbil, Iraq, around the time of reported attacks claimed by the IRGC.
Questions over verification
Reuters said it was unable to independently verify the claims, while neither US nor Chinese authorities, nor the companies mentioned, provided immediate comment.
China’s embassy in Washington rejected the allegations, saying it opposes the spread of speculation and misleading implications about Chinese involvement.
Broader geopolitical implications
The Chinese satellite report adds to growing tensions over space-based surveillance technology and its potential military applications.
US officials have previously warned about the risks of advanced surveillance systems being used to support regional military operations.
Source: CNA
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