The Case for Space: A Legislative Framework for an Independent United States Space Force
Abstract
This paper examines the United States Air Forces role in managing space and provides recommendations for the future of space in the US military. Though it echoes specific recommendations made elsewhere by previous authors, the primary purpose of this paper is to consider the legislative framework required to sever space from Air Force oversight and establish a separate United States space force (USSF) under the Department of Defense. The paper begins by examining the historical evolution and fractured history of space in the US governments bureaucratic machine. Next, this paper looks at multiple reports calling for changes in space leadership and oversight, the inability to effect meaningful change, and an evaluation of the need for an independent space force. It then discusses the various roles and missions an independent space force would assume. Finally, it discusses the legal framework necessary to establish a USSF and analyzes a legislative proposal. Though this paper advocates for standing up a separate USSF, the actual value of this paper is in the legislation proposed in Appendix 2, and the analysis of that proposal. Merely considering the specific recommendations in that enabling legislation is beneficial should the United States move toward establishing a USSF.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1103332
Entities
People
- Dustin L. Grant
- Matthew J. Neil
Organizations
- Air University