Economic Effects of Weaponizing Space: A Modified SWOT Analysis

Abstract

If the United States chooses to weaponize space to protect national interests along the space line of communication, eight major economic effects emerge. These effects will generate momentum toward an extensive space debris removal industry, updated and economically relevant space agreements, and an incentive-based space innovation and commerce environment. Framed through a modified Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats model, the analysis illuminates both the enablers and challenges contributing to securing national interests in space, deterring space aggression, and maintaining a competitive advantage across the diplomatic, informational, military, and economic instruments as they reach into the space domain. The analysis provides policymakers and strategic planners with considerations regarding alliances, resilience, treaties, and economic security.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 27, 2021
Accession Number
AD1153960

Entities

People

  • David L. Thompson

Organizations

  • National Defense University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Agreements
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Commerce
  • Department Of Defense
  • Directed Energy Weapons
  • Earth Orbits
  • Economic Security
  • Economic Systems
  • Electronic Warfare
  • Governments
  • Information Operations
  • International Law
  • International Relations
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • National Security
  • Outer Space
  • Space Debris
  • Space Environments
  • Space Objects
  • Space Systems
  • Space Transportation
  • Spacecraft
  • Treaties
  • United States
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Space