The following is the Aug. 9, 2018 report ton Congress on the Pentagon’s plan to establish a Department of Defense command structure for space operations in the military and the announcement from Vice President Mike Pence.
From the report:
Space is integral to the U.S. way of life, our national security, and modern warfare. Although U.S. space systems have historically maintained a technological advantage over those of potential adversaries, those potential adversaries are now actively developing ways to deny our use of space in a crisis. It is imperative that the United States adapts its policies, doctrine, and capabilities to protect our interests. Towards that end, the Department of Defense will marshal spaces resources into a Space Force. The Space Force will protect our economy through deterrence of malicious activities, ensure our space systems meet national security requirements, and provide vital capabilities to joint and coalition forces across the spectrum of conflict.
Presidential leadership, congressional support, and Department of Defense focus have set the environment for dramatic improvement of our national space capabilities. The President has articulated a compelling vision for a Space Force that protects the U.S. economy and way of life.
In his remarks at a meeting of the National Space Council on June 18, 2018, the President directed “the Department of Defense and Pentagon to immediately begin the process necessary to establish a Space Force as the sixth branch of the Armed Forces” that is separate from and equal to other branches. The Department of Defense will take immediate steps to implement the President’s direction where authorities exist and seek legislation from Congress to realize the President’s vision.
The President’s National Security Strategy and the National Strategy for Space highlight that space is a strategic domain and the United States must maintain peace through strength in space. The National Strategy for Space outlines four pillars for a unified approach to secure U.S. space
leadership:
- Transform to more resilient space architectures,
- Strengthen deterrence and warfighting options,
- Improve foundational capabilities, structure, and processes, and
- Foster conducive domestic and international environments for space development. Congress has also made its intent and support clear, providing direction and significant funding to enhance national space capabilities.
