The Defense Department and the Rise of Commercial Spacepower
Nov 30, 2023
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Top officials and industry experts discuss the rise of commercial space power in the Defense Department. Topics include integrating commercial spacepower, benefits of space enterprise participation, and the significance of space missions and collaboration with the government.
The Defense Department acknowledges the economic and innovation-driven nature of the commercial space industry, and aims to make it easier for companies to work with them.
US Space Command establishes partnerships with commercial satellite communication companies and space domain awareness providers to enhance information sharing and synchronization of efforts.
Deep dives
Integration of Commercial Space Technology with Defense Department
The Defense Department recognizes the importance of commercial space technology and the potential for partnerships with companies. The department aims to make it easier and more appealing for companies to work with them. They acknowledge the economic and innovation-driven nature of the commercial space industry, and see the potential for resilience and cost-effectiveness in leveraging commercial space capabilities. However, there are hurdles to overcome, including bureaucratic challenges such as red tape and overclassification, as well as mismatches between the department's requirements and the commercial industry's capabilities, particularly in areas like cybersecurity. Despite these challenges, the department is working on a commercial space integration strategy to improve collaboration and harness the benefits of commercial space technology.
Partnerships with Commercial Industry for Space Operations
US Space Command recognizes the importance of partnerships with the commercial industry for space operations. They have established various cells and collaborations with commercial satellite communication companies and space domain awareness providers. The commercial integration cell at Vandenberg Space Force Base focuses on satellite communications, while the joint commercial operations cell at Catalyst Campus in Colorado Springs works on space domain awareness. These partnerships allow for information sharing, synchronization of efforts, and a better understanding of the space domain. The command also emphasizes space situational sharing agreements with over 180 countries, academic institutions, and commercial partners to ensure safe and stable space operations. The goal is to leverage commercial capabilities and integrate them into military operations for collective mission success.
Internationalization and Challenges of Working with Allies in Space
The internationalization of space operations and partnerships is a growing trend. Many countries have established their own space commands and are making significant investments in space capabilities. US space command engages in government-to-government and military-to-military interactions with allied countries to enhance interoperability and cooperation. Commercial partnerships play a crucial role in these interactions, as commercial space industry players from different countries provide services and contribute to space domain awareness. However, achieving interoperability and coordination can be challenging due to classification issues and the need for trust and information sharing. Efforts are being made to build confidence, establish enduring relationships, and identify ways to integrate commercial capabilities in a balanced and layered approach for enhanced collective mission success.
TechCrunch Disrupt hosted Ryan and a top-notch panel for a conversation on the increasing importance of commercial stakeholders in the exercise of military power in and from space. It features John Plumb, the first assistant secretary of defense for space policy; Mandy Vaughn, the CEO and founder of GXO, Inc.; and Gen. James H. Dickinson, the commander of U.S. Space Command. Listen to their discussion, which was recorded in September. Thanks to TechCrunch for allowing us to use this recording.
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