Security and Stability in the New Space Age: The Orbital Security Dilemma

This book examines the drivers behind great power security competition in space and investigates whether realistic strategic alternatives exist to further militarization. It explores the dynamics behind a potential future war in space and investigates methods of preventing an arms race from an international relations theory and military-strategy standpoint.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Space is a rapidly evolving domain of economic and military significance, with countries like the United States, China, and Russia engaging in an escalating arms race. This book delves into the drivers behind this security competition in space, seeking to determine if realistic strategic alternatives exist to further militarization.

The book begins by examining the actions and events that indicate a growing security dilemma in space. It explores the dynamics behind a potential future war in space and investigates methods of preventing an arms race from an international relations theory and military-strategy standpoint.

The book is divided into three parts. The first section provides a broad discussion of the applicability of international relations theory to current conditions in space. It examines the challenges and opportunities presented by the unique nature of space, including the lack of traditional territorial boundaries, the potential for rapid escalation, and the importance of non-traditional security threats.

The second section directly applies theory to the space environment to determine whether competition or cooperation is the optimal strategic choice. It analyzes the strategic implications of different space systems, such as satellites, launch vehicles, and space-based weapons, and evaluates the potential benefits and risks of each.

The third section focuses on testing the hypotheses against reality by analyzing novel alternatives to three major categories of space systems. These alternatives include space-based deterrence, space-based surveillance, and space-based commerce. The book concludes with a study of the practical limitations of applying a strategy centered on commercialization as a method of defusing the orbital security dilemma.

This book will be of interest to students of space power, strategic studies, and international relations. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex dynamics shaping space security and offers valuable insights into the potential for peaceful and cooperative solutions to the growing security dilemma in space.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367529475