Abstract
Abstract : The Commission Report identifies the United States' ever-growing reliance on space and space technology both militarily and economically. It outlines the vulnerabilities of its systems and warns that it must be prepared to prevent a Space Pearl Harbor. Does this concern dictate that the next logical step is to begin the process of space weaponization? United States government space policy is under review and may alter the current wait and see posture regarding the development and deployment of space-based weapons. Is it in the United States' national interest to pursue weapons in space? Is space weaponization inevitable? This paper will examine the issue in three parts. First, it defines the issue and examines the background of the debate, including the political and legal environment. Second, it analyzes what might lead the United States to pursue a policy of space weaponization and examines the question of inevitability. The analysis also examines the benefits of space weaponization versus its expense and vulnerabilities, and considers its impact on a range of potential adversaries. Finally, the paper proposes recommendations for a 21st century space policy that offers an alternate approach to meeting national security needs while actively seeking to prevent the weaponization of space.
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