The Limits of Spacepower
Abstract
The United States military has become highly dependent on space-based assets in the critical areas of communications, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and precision navigation. This dependence, coupled with the lack of redundant capabilities, leaves the U.S. particularly vulnerable in these areas, as we risk having this capability neutralized or destroyed. The CINC or JTF commander's staff must be knowledgeable of these vulnerabilities when planning a campaign or major operation, and should build alternatives, backup capabilities and redundancies into its plans and functions, in the event these critical assets are no longer available. One alternative to space-based communications and ISR capabilities is the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These platforms offer a variety of similar capabilities, including wide-band communications and a variety of intelligence-collecting sensors. Other technologies are in development to offer an alternative to the Global Positioning System (GPS). Space power, like air power before it, holds tremendous promise for conducting future military operations. We are still tapping its potential and exploring the unique ways it brings synergy to the battle. We must not be so enamored by its possibilities that we pass up sensible cost-efficient alternatives, thereby placing our warfighters at risk on the battlefields of the future.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 18, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA395090
Entities
People
- Michael T. Mcneely
Organizations
- Naval War College