Recently, Australia announced a new Defence Space Command Agency to counter the growing influence of Russia and China in space. The move will help Australia in developing and advocating space-specific priorities within the government, industry, allies and international partners. It marks a significant step in the increasingly critical area of space defense and militarization.
Function of the Defence Space Command Agency
The newly formed agency will be responsible for training personnel to become space specialists, strategic space planning and playing a part in any developments relating to space policy. Australia aims to establish scientific and space priorities with the agency, working towards constructing an efficient space architecture. The agency’s operations, including design, construction, maintenance, will abide by the standards and restrictions of Australia’s Defence Ministry.
Global Space Command Structures
Various nations have established space command structures in response to the escalating importance of space. These include the US Space Force’s Spacecom, India’s Defence Space Agency (DSA), France’s Joint Space Command, Iranian Space Command led by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force, Russian Aerospace Forces’ Russian Space Forces, and the United Kingdom Space Command under the Royal Air Force.
Militarization and Weaponization of Outer Space
The concept of space weaponization emerged in the early 1980s through the United States’ “Strategic Defence Initiative” or “Star Wars” program. This initiative proposed placing numerous satellites into orbit that would identify and shoot down enemy missiles. Militarization refers to using space to support ground, sea, and air-based military operations, while weaponization denotes placing destructive devices into space orbit.
Growing Concerns Over Militarization and Weaponization of Space
The increasing militarization of outer space is seen as a threat to the Global Commons for Outer Space. It is creating a race towards weaponizing outer space, as demonstrated by Anti-SAT missiles that can destroy satellites in outer space. This potential destruction poses a threat to the global communication system and presents future security concerns due to an increase in the nations interested in space. The ensuing arms race could lead to an environment of uncertainty, suspicion, competition, and aggressive deployment that might result in war.
India’s Stance on Outer Space Weaponization
In March 2019, India performed a successful anti-satellite test, placing it alongside China, Russia, and the United States in deploying a practical anti-satellite capability. Furthermore, in the same year, India established the Defense Space Research Organization (DSRO) and the Defense Space Agency (DSA). These organizations aim at facilitating the development of civilian space technology for military purposes and integrating space assets from the army, navy, and air force.
Global Rules and Demands related to Space
The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 prohibits countries from placing any objects carrying weapons of mass destruction into Earth’s orbit or on celestial bodies. It demands that these bodies be used exclusively for peaceful purposes. India is also a party to this treaty. Other notable agreements include the Rescue Agreement of 1968, Space Liability Convention of 1972, Registration Convention of 1976, and the Moon Treaty of 1979. Although these treaties are in place, none prevents Anti-Sat missions.
The Need for a Centralized Governance System
Restoring the view of space as a global common is essential for humanity’s welfare. We need a centrally controlled governance system that guarantees a responsible and safe ecosystem for space exploration. It will ensure unhindered access to a peaceful space for our future generations.