Threat to U.S. space assets no longer speculative - multiple examples of attacks on space assets worldwide
The [U.S. Space] Commission went on to state: "The nation's leaders must assure that the vulnerability of the United States is reduced and that the consequences of a surprise attack on U.S. space assets are limited in their effects." This was not idle speculation about future challenges to space assets. GPS jamming has occurred as has jamming of commercial telecommunications satellites. Disruptions of U.S. space capability have the potential to impact all areas of national power – military, civil and commercial. Open source reporting has cited examples of incidents, both intentional and unintentional, that have impacted space capabilities and caused a ripple effect in the commercial world.
While none of these incidents proved catastrophic, our enemies clearly understand the reliance we place in our space capabilities and we should expect the level and sophistication of efforts to deny us the advantages of space to increase in future conflicts. We can not assume space will be a sanctuary for U.S. national security assets and must take prudent steps to ensure that we have the capability to protect our space assets and to guarantee our freedom of action in space.
Kehler, C. Robert. "Statement of General C. Robert Kehler." Testimony before the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces of the House Armed Services Committee. Ed. . Washington, D.C.: , June 21, 2006. [ 1 reference ]
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