Space Force Adopts 'Attack, Defend, Pursue' Doctrine for New Weapon Systems

2 days ago7 min read4 comments

The United States Space Force has implemented a strategic new naming convention for its weapon systems, built upon the core principles of 'attack, defend, and pursue. ' This framework elevates space strategy to the same clear, actionable level as traditional warfare domains, marking a significant shift in how military capabilities in the orbital realm are defined and communicated.The 'attack' classification will apply to offensive systems engineered to target and eliminate adversary space assets. This category is expected to include technologies such as ground-launched anti-satellite missiles, co-orbital interceptors, and directed-energy weapons, directly countering the growing anti-satellite threats demonstrated by nations like China and Russia.The 'defend' category encompasses systems dedicated to protecting vital U. S.satellites from an array of threats, including electronic jamming, laser attacks, and kinetic strikes. This involves developing next-generation satellites with advanced features like superior maneuverability, radiation-hardened components, and potentially integrated defensive systems such as lasers to disable incoming projectiles.The 'pursue' designation covers systems focused on space domain awareness and intelligence collection. This represents the persistent effort to track the vast number of objects in orbit, differentiate between benign debris and hostile activity, and achieve strategic information superiority.This new, transparent lexicon, first reported by Ars Technica, moves beyond the often-ambiguous naming traditions of the past. It provides a functional understanding of military space capabilities for policymakers, the public, and international allies.The doctrine also sends an unambiguous message to global competitors: the U. S.is formally structuring for prolonged, sustained operations and potential conflict in space. This strategic shift carries profound implications for international space law and arms control, challenging existing treaties that have failed to keep pace with rapid technological advancement. As these categorized systems advance from development to deployment, they will test the foundations of deterrence in a new domain, potentially preventing conflict or accelerating a new orbital arms race.

#Space Force

#weapon systems

#naming scheme

#military space

#defense policy

#featured

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