Key facts
- UK Space Command chief Air Vice-Marshal Jamie Thompson has been suspended.
- Thompson was arrested on allegations of theft and a serious sexual offense.
- The theft investigation has concluded and been referred for a charging decision.
- The investigation into the alleged sexual offense is ongoing.
- Air Commodore Darren Whiteley is the interim Commander of UK Space Command.
Air Vice-Marshal Jamie Thompson, the head of the UK's Space Command, has been suspended from his post following his arrest on allegations of theft and a serious sexual offense. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the suspension, stating it was part of an ongoing investigation.
Thompson, who was appointed Commander of UK Space Command in June 2026, was arrested in connection with "reports of theft and a serious sexual offence involving an adult," according to the Defence Serious Crime Command (DSCC). The DSCC spokesperson indicated that the theft investigation has concluded and has been referred to the Service Prosecuting Authority for a charging decision, while the investigation into the alleged sexual offense remains active.
An RAF spokesperson stated that Air Vice-Marshal James Thompson was suspended "without prejudice as part of an investigation." Air Commodore Darren Whiteley has been appointed as the interim Commander of UK Space Command. The news emerged on the same day Defence Secretary Wes Streeting unveiled a new RAF space squadron dedicated to protecting UK satellites.