Proposal for a Cooperative Space Strategy with China
Abstract
Currently, the U.S. has superior space systems and technology when compared to all other nations. U.S. military operations have become increasingly dependent on the capabilities that space provides and without it, U.S. military power would drastically be rendered less effective and essentially deaf and blind. In order to continue leading in the space arena, the U.S. will have to make political and funding decisions concerning space that could affect the future of space warfare and of national security. Without a specific road ahead, complicated by an era of economic downturn, the U.S. could potentially lose its leadership role in space operations. Arguably, China will be first in line to challenge the U.S. The U.S. response to China's rise as a space power must be reflected in a balanced cooperative strategy in which challenges are managed and opportunities exploited. To prove that a cooperative strategy is prudent, the current space mission areas will be briefly addressed to give a foundation of current U.S. capabilities. Then the current U.S. space policy and security strategies will be reviewed to establish the legal parameters in place and establish a strategic framework. A review of current Chinese space capabilities, activities and policy will help establish Chinese threat and/or intent. An analysis on why a cooperative strategy is appropriate will transition into a proposed U.S.-China Cooperative Space Strategy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA530117
Entities
People
- Tracey L. Hayes
Organizations
- National Defense University