Sustained Space Superiority

"The increasing importance of space for U.S. national security requires the nation to protect its interests by sustaining a position of space superiority. The forces of globalization are forcing the United States to move away from its historical stance of maintaining space as a sanctuary toward the concept of using weapons in space. The United States must prepare sufficient "bridges" to make the transition to using weapons in space in view of psychological impediments and treaty obligations, which must be orchestrated to support and protect the current uses of space while preparing for eventual conflict in space. This study examines a framework for organizing U.S. space activities into a coherent national strategy sustained space superiority. It analyzes several dimensions that affect a national strategy for U.S. space superiority, including its military, intelligence, and economic components. This national strategy for space superiority will require strong leadership and public support because this strategy will be expensive and involve a long-term commitment. While the United States enjoys space superiority today, this advantage will be lost if the nation does not take the necessary steps to sustain it." -- Abstract.