The US President has recently established a new Pentagon command, known as Spacecom, dedicated to space warfare. This announcement comes amid perceived threats from China and Russia concerning space activities. Spacecom will serve as the 11th complete Pentagon command and is the second of its kind to be launched in two years.
The Rise of Specialized Pentagon Commands
In 2018, the Pentagon recognized the importance of cyber warfare operations and elevated them to CyberCom, indicating that online attacks and defense now form a distinct domain of combat.
Furthermore, the current US President has declared that the SpaceCom setup will soon be followed by the formation of the United States Space Force. This will operate as the sixth branch of the United States armed forces, joining the ranks of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard.
SpaceCom: Necessity and Function
Although the U.S. Air Force currently operates a dedicated space warfare operation, the establishment of SpaceCom represents a significant elevation. This new command will focus on developing and maintaining space facilities, particularly satellites and high-altitude aircraft which are vital in modern-day warfare.
Challenges in the Space Domain
Warfare in space presents a unique set of challenges. Adversaries can interfere with communication and GPS satellites, or use ground-launched missiles to physically destroy these crucial elements.
Recent Actions from Other Nations
The US isn’t alone in realizing the strategic importance of space. India, for instance, has recently tested its own anti-satellite missile as part of Mission Shakti. To tackle new-age national security challenges, the Indian Government had decided in late 2018 to establish three new agencies: the Defence Cyber Agency, the Defence Space Agency, and the Special Operations Division.
Newly Instituted Defence Space Agency in India
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Defence Cyber Agency | To counter cyber threats |
| Defence Space Agency | To manage space operations |
| Special Operations Division | To perform special security operations |
Among these, the newly instituted Defence Space Agency will oversee the Defence Space Research Organization (DSRO). The DSRO’s primary purpose is to develop weapons capable of denying, degrading, disrupting, destroying, or deceiving an adversary’s space capability.
The Strategic Importance of Space in Modern Warfare
Space has emerged as a critical domain in contemporary warfare, requiring nations to strategically consider their presence and capabilities in this area. The development of specialized agencies dedicated to space warfare, such as the US’s Spacecom and India’s Defence Space Agency, reflect this reality.
Source: TH
