Could someone with expertise explain how this is different than just breaking off the part of the US Air Force that handles space? My understanding was the USAF was already our 'Space Force'...
This constitutes the main critique of the idea. Besides pacifist arguments against militarization of space as a commonwealth for all of Earth.
21st Space Wing out of Peterson AFB in Colorado Springs already bears the brunt of the duty. With a dedicated total staff of approx 20K air men and women.
DoD recommendations remain to be seen for a sixth branch. But I believe the design is for a much bigger and permanent institution. Space based communications comprise GPS systems, navigation, timing, broadcast and a whole lot else. Russia and China already have tested ground to orbit based missile capacity. And space systems are inherently fragile: only a few satellites need to be taken offline for there to be wide disruptions in service.
The big question is can it be done with the efficiency we are now witnessing in private sector New Space enterprises. Or will we see the same bureaucracy that is plaguing the F-35 rollout.
Personally I feel if it can be done "ahead of schedule, and under budget". It could provide security for all of humankind's peaceful expansion into the stars.
Since the Navy already has way more aircraft than the air Force, I don't get it either. I assume it's just a way to increase the military industrial complex more to justify the larger spend.
Funny part is, we should probably be investing in cybersecurity instead, else we'll probably make a huge target for someone else to just take over.
The cynic in me says this is an attempt to weaken NASA, which has been increasingly under fire from conservatives for its engagement in projects not associated with space exploration. Say you can separate out that aspect into the military. Then there's no need for NASA at all.
