Space-Based Weapons: Long-Term Strategic Implications and Alternatives

Abstract

This article addresses one component of the debate on whether or not to weaponize space. Specifically, it looks at whether a decision to base weapons in space would produce a net, long-term increase in relative military capability for the United States or serve to reduce its current military dominance. It defines "space-based weapon" as a system placed in orbit or deep space that is designed "for destroying, damaging, rendering inoperable, or changing the flight trajectory of space objects, or for damaging objects in the atmosphere or on the ground."

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2005
Accession Number
ADA521114

Entities

People

  • David C. Hardesty

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Aircrafts
  • Arms Control Treaties
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Directed Energy Weapons
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Military Organizations
  • Munitions
  • National Security
  • Navigation
  • Space Objects
  • Space Transportation
  • Spacecraft
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
  • Warfare
  • Weapons Effects

Readers

  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Space Objects