The United States Space Force has been making strides towards disaggregation, a process that aims to make their space assets more resilient and less vulnerable to attacks. This concept, which involves breaking up large satellites into smaller components that can be quickly replaced or repositioned, is becoming increasingly important as more countries develop anti-satellite capabilities. To show that they are serious about implementing disaggregation, the Space Force has taken four key steps.
The first step that the Space Force has taken towards disaggregation is the launch of the Tactically Responsive Space (TRS) program. This program aims to develop small satellites that can be rapidly deployed to replace larger, more vulnerable assets. By having a stockpile of these smaller satellites ready to launch at a moment’s notice, the Space Force can quickly respond to any threats against their space assets. This proactive approach to satellite deployment is a key component of disaggregation.
The second step in the Space Force’s disaggregation process is the development of the Protected Tactical Waveform (PTW). This technology allows for more secure and resilient communications between satellites and ground stations, making it more difficult for adversaries to jam or intercept signals. By incorporating the PTW into their satellite communication systems, the Space Force is increasing their overall resilience and making it harder for potential attackers to disrupt their operations.
The third step towards disaggregation that the Space Force has taken is the creation of the USSF Space Systems Command. This new command is responsible for developing and acquiring space systems that are more resilient, agile, and responsive. By centralizing these efforts under one command, the Space Force can more effectively coordinate their disaggregation efforts and ensure that all their space assets are working towards the same goal of increasing resilience and survivability.
The fourth and final step that shows the Space Force is serious about disaggregation is the creation of the Disaggregated Space Architectures Study Team (DSAST). This team is tasked with developing new space architectures that are more resilient and less vulnerable to attack. By exploring different ways to disaggregate their space assets, the DSAST is helping the Space Force stay ahead of potential threats and ensuring that their satellite systems remain effective in an increasingly contested space environment.
Overall, the United States Space Force is demonstrating through these four key steps that they are serious about implementing disaggregation to increase the resilience and survivability of their space assets. By launching programs like TRS, developing technologies like PTW, creating new commands like USSF Space Systems Command, and forming teams like DSAST, the Space Force is taking concrete actions to protect their critical space capabilities from growing threats. As other countries continue to develop anti-satellite capabilities, the Space Force’s focus on disaggregation will be crucial in maintaining their advantage in space.
