Morality to Strategy: Perspectives on Offensive Weapons in Space.

Abstract

Since President Reagan introduced the concept of a Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) in March 1983, space-based weapons have been a subject of broad national debate. To date, all consideration has focused on defensive applications, yet the technology which permits SDI is equally capable of supporting offensive weapons. This paper proposes increased consideration of offense related space issues. It outlines the moral, political, and military implications of such weapons and identifies several potential applications. The military utility of these weapons is considered in the context of current military strategy. Shortfalls are identified between current capabilities and strategies for power projection, air-land warfare, and limited strategic warfare. For each shortfall, the possible contribution of space-based weapons is considered. The paper reviews space weapon's support requirements and identifies issues associated with institutional advocacy. It concludes by recommending further analysis and debate on the subject of offensive weapons in space.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 1986
Accession Number
ADA177635

Entities

People

  • James E. Beale

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Counter WMD
  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerial Warfare
  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Arms Control
  • Battles
  • Combat Areas
  • Governments
  • International Organizations
  • International Security
  • Military Organizations
  • National Security
  • New York
  • Strategic Defense Initiative
  • Treaties
  • United States
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Fields of Study

  • Political science

Readers

  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Space