Cooperation with BRICS Countries in Space: From Partnership to Technological Alliance
Today, BRICS countries face the shared challenge of forming a more equitable world order that provides equal development opportunities and ensures technological sovereignty for all nations, while also safeguarding their independence from unilateral sanctions. Among the top priorities to focus on in order to achieve technological sovereignty is the realm of space activities. This domain not only contributes directly and extensively to defence capabilities, but also fosters advancements in the digital economy, scientific breakthroughs, new technologies, and reinforcement of productive, cultural and human connections with friendly nations. Historical experience demonstrates that tackling large-scale objectives is more effectively accomplished in cooperation with partners within the framework of major sectoral and scientific projects, as well as by forming technological alliances. How do the BRICS members see the format of a technological alliance in the realm of space cooperation? How can this alliance contribute to the economic stability and independence of the participating countries amidst unilateral sanctions? In what ways can collaboration in the field of space strengthen and develop the technological sovereignty of the entire BRICS alliance, as well as each of its members? Is there a need for the BRICS countries to establish a joint 'Space Internet' system and undertake a joint manned lunar programme? How can national near-Earth stations be utilized to benefit the BRICS countries and the joint lunar programme, such as for the development of new space technologies, a production facility, cosmonaut training, a transportation hub, and other related objectives? How can the BRICS nations coordinate their efforts on groundbreaking space initiatives like ‘nuclear space energy’ and ‘biology of living organisms (including humans, animals, and plants) in space,’ which are essential for the exploration of near-Earth and deep space, and also possess substantial commercial potential on Earth?
