Policy

Shanahan Touts Unity in Space-Force Pitch, But Disagreements Clearly Remain

It’s a key week for proponents of the Trump administration’s space reorganization — and their detractors.

Policy

Sorry, Florida, Looks Like You’re Not Getting US Space Command

Despite lobbying, Sunshine State left off shortlist for command’s new headquarters.

Science & Tech

Another Launch Startup Gets Work from US Air Force

New Zealand-based Rocket Lab will orbit a trio of satellites as Pentagon hunts for cheap ways to put sensors in space.

Policy

Space Force’s Projected Size Drifts Upward, Drawing Concern on Capitol Hill

Despite “lean” pledges, aides are skeptical about the size of the proposed branch and the number of generals who will lead it.

Ideas

The USAF Shouldn’t Narrow Competition for Its Satellite Launches

The service’s plan to reduce launch-contract eligibility from three providers to two would reduce incentives to innovate and keep costs down.

Science & Tech

Pentagon Wants to Test A Space-Based Weapon in 2023

Defense officials have asked for $304 million to fund research into space-based lasers, particle beams, and other new forms of missile defense next year.

Policy

Legislative Hurdle Delays US Space Command Stand-Up

Pentagon can’t move ahead until Congress repeals a provision in the 2019 defense authorization act.

Science & Tech

Pentagon Wants Satellites That Can Dodge Incoming Fire

As China and Russia move to weaponize space, the U.S. military is working to give its constellations a “fighting chance.”

Policy

Trump Officially Directs Pentagon to Create Space Force, Within Air Force

If Congress approves, Space Force would exist like the Marine Corps within the Navy Department.

Policy

The US Air Force Has Won Control of the Space Force

Six months ago, service leaders said they were being cut out of the planning process. Now they’re being put in charge of it.

Science & Tech

China, Russia Building Attack Satellites and Space Lasers: Pentagon Report

The DIA says Chinese lasers could be ready to disable U.S. satellites in low Earth orbit by next year.

Business

Will Space Force Give an Extra Boost to Satellite Spending?

Defense execs see increased sales as Pentagon upgrades orbiting gear to fend off attacks.

Business

Despite Record Earnings, Defense Firms Laid Off Nearly 1,500 Over the Past Year

SpaceX’s announcement on Sunday punctuated a year of workforce reductions among prominent companies.

Policy

Trump’s Space Force Request Is Coming — But Final Form Remains Hazy

Will his proposed space organization more resemble the Air Force or the Marines? Pence didn’t say.

Ideas

Ep. 30: Crisis in the Sea of Azov; Space Force!?; Nuclear anthropology and American folklore

Welcome to our podcast about the news, strategy, tech, and business trends defining the future of national security.

Policy

White House Seeks Alternatives to Independent Space Force

Pentagon leaders were dutifully double-timing toward a new military branch. Then they got new marching orders.

Policy

Space Force Actually May Be Bargain, New Cost Estimate Says

“At this point it may be a coin toss whether or not this makes it through,” says Todd Harrison.

Policy

Senior Defense Officials Offer Dueling Pricetags for Space Force

Hours after the Pentagon’s No. 2 floated a sub-$5 billion figure, the Air Force secretary stood by her $13-billion estimate.

Policy

Trump's Space Force Faces an Uncertain Fate

Congressional lawmakers, including Republicans, were skeptical of the idea long before the midterms.

Policy

Pentagon Officials Debating How Fast to Launch Space Force, Deputy Says

White House panel announces formal recommendations, while Deputy Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan confirms NRO will remain apart from Space Force.