ANALYSIS OF A KINETIC ORBITAL BOMBARDMENT SYSTEM
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Authors
Driver, Mark
Subjects
kinetic orbital bombardment system
KOBS
orbital system
kill vehicle
combat system
systems engineering
space weapons system
Low Earth Orbit
LEO
advanced weapons
Outer Space Treaty
strike
KOBS
orbital system
kill vehicle
combat system
systems engineering
space weapons system
Low Earth Orbit
LEO
advanced weapons
Outer Space Treaty
strike
Advisors
Green, John M.
Johnson, Bonnie W.
Date of Issue
2025-03
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
In a potential maritime conflict between the United States (U.S.) and China, the U.S. may find itself at a significant disadvantage. This thesis explores a potential solution to bridge this gap: a kinetic orbital bombardment system (KOBS). Once relegated to science fiction, this capability has become feasible due to significant advances in space technology and the decreasing cost of launching to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). While international law prohibits the placement of nuclear weapons in space, there are no such restrictions on conventional weapons. This study assesses the feasibility, challenges, opportunities, and costs of KOBS to guide future design considerations. A systems engineering approach was employed to create a detailed design architecture, examining the system’s structure, requirements, and operational utility. Modeling and simulations indicate that a constellation of satellites, positioned at 300 km altitude across six orbital planes with six satellites per plane, could target any location on Earth within 12 to 27 minutes, delivering 1 gigajoule of kinetic energy with an estimated cost of $119,000 per strike. As adversaries continue to explore the weaponization of space, the U.S. must consider its own strategic options. A Kinetic Orbital Bombardment System offers a unique deterrence capability, delivering a rapid, globally-reaching strike that is difficult to counter, with unparalleled technical surprise.
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Thesis
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
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This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.