Toward a national space warfighting architecture : forging a framework for debate about space-based operational and tactical combat support

Abstract

The primary objective of this thesis is to propose a template for a National Space Warfighting Architecture (NSWA). The template is intended to fill the void that exists between national security space policies and the services' space warfighting plans. As such, it will provide a unifying framework for follow-on discussions and debate about the proper direction of space-based operational and tactical combat support. In support of this objective, this thesis aims to: provide the proper focus for the architecture; identify the key conceptual ideas that should drive its development; establish a common vocabulary among managers of the Space-based Strategic Reconnaissance Surveillance Program, service space support officers, and terrestrial warfighters; develop a logical and meaningful architectural organizational approach; facilitate the comparison between space-based and terrestrial-based combat support systems; and show how the NSWA fits within the larger framework of the National Space Program.