Russia says U.S. intelligence satellites built in cooperation with private companies such as SpaceX will be “legitimate targets for retaliatory measures, including military ones,” according to Reuters.

Reuters reported that SpaceX’s Starshield division is developing a network of satellites under a secret $1.8 billion contract with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO).

If successful, the program would greatly expand the ability of the U.S. government and military to quickly identify potential targets almost anywhere on the globe, Reuters sources said.

In a statement, the NRO acknowledged its mission to develop a sophisticated satellite system and partnerships with other government agencies, companies, research institutions and countries, but declined to comment on Reuters’ data on the extent of SpaceX’s involvement in the effort.

“The National Intelligence Agency is developing the most effective, diverse and sustainable space intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance system the world has ever seen,” the spokesman said.

“We are aware of Washington’s attempts to attract the private sector to serve its military and space ambitions,” said Maria Zakharova, an official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

These networks “become a legitimate target for retaliatory measures, including military ones,” Zakharova told reporters.

SpaceX has repeatedly found itself at the forefront of geopolitical controversies in recent years, most notably over the use of its Starlink internet system during Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Last month, the Kyiv Independent wrote that Russian troops began to actively use Starlink terminals manufactured by SpaceX on the front lines.

Ukrainian military intelligence also released a recording of an intercepted phone conversation in which the Russian military discusses the successful installation of the Starlink terminal.

On Monday, the Kremlin denied this information. SpaceX founder Elon Musk has also denied ever selling or supplying equipment to the Russian military.

China accuses the US of threatening global security

Chinese state media, including Chinese military channels, on Sunday accused the US of threatening global security.

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) social media account said the SpaceX program exposed US “shamelessness and double standards” and Washington accused Chinese technology companies of threatening US security.

“We urge American companies not to help the attackers to cause harm,” Junzhengping, the PLA account, said in a post on the social media platform Weibo on Sunday. The account has 1.1 million followers.

“All countries around the world must be vigilant and protect themselves against new and even greater security threats created by the US government,” the post said.