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Economist Podcasts

The Intelligence: Out-of-this-world war

Feb 16, 2024
Anton LaGuardia, the diplomatic editor at The Economist, dives into the escalating threats of space warfare and its implications for military strategy. Joan Hurie highlights trends from the Democracy Index, revealing the paradox of rising democracies amid declining democratic quality. Finally, Anne Rowe shares the remarkable story of Jack Jennings, a WWII veteran, showcasing his resilience during harrowing POW experiences. This blend of military, political, and personal narratives provides a thought-provoking look at today's global challenges.
27:19

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Quick takeaways

  • Space is a crucial military domain, and the use of space weaponry poses significant threats.
  • The global average index score of democracy has fallen, indicating a democratic malaise worldwide.

Deep dives

Space warfare is becoming a reality

Space is not only a place for peaceful exploration but also a military domain. Satellites play a vital role in modern warfare, providing time signals for weapons, position information, and persistent surveillance. The establishment of the Space Force by the US highlights the importance of space as a military domain. The use of space weaponry, such as direct ascent anti-satellite weapons and other forms of directed energy, poses significant threats. Potential conflicts in space could lead to devastating consequences, and deterrence is crucial to avoid escalating tensions.

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