Russia-backed spaceport proposed for Christmas Island abandoned in 2002 over sovereignty fears

Cabinet papers reveal Russia wanted to limit Australia's access to its rocket technology and classified information, leading to impasse'

Plans to build a spaceport on Christmas Island with Russian technology were stymied in 2002 over fears that it would impinge on Australia's sovereignty, cabinet papers reveal.

Russia wanted to limit Australia's access to its rocket technology and classified information, and had concerns that a planned detention facility on the island would put its security at risk.