Establishment of the U.S. Space Force - June 18, 2018

On June 18, 2018, President Donald Trump made a significant announcement during a meeting of the National Space Council, directing the Pentagon to begin the process of establishing a Space Force as the sixth branch of the United States Armed Forces. This directive was aimed at ensuring American dominance in space, emphasizing the strategic importance of space capabilities to national security.

Background

The concept of a separate military branch dedicated to space had been discussed for years prior to the 2018 directive. Advocates argued that such a force was necessary to address growing threats from other nations with advancing space capabilities. Concerns over the militarization of space and the need for comprehensive oversight and coordination of space defense capabilities were central to these discussions.

Key Aspects of the Announcement

• Dominance in Space: President Trump’s directive underscored the intent of the United States to maintain superiority in space, which he and other officials described as a potential battlefield of the future.

• Separate Military Branch: The proposed Space Force was to be a distinct and equal arm of the U.S. military, akin to traditional branches like the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.

• National Security Concerns: The creation of the Space Force was driven by the desire to protect U.S. interests in space, which included the safeguarding of satellites and other space assets vital to national defense and global communications.

Implications and Reactions

• Defense Development: The move set the stage for significant organizational and budgetary developments in the U.S. defense establishment focused on space operations and defense capabilities.

• Mixed Reception: The proposal received a mix of support and criticism. Supporters cited it as a necessary step to protect space assets and ensure military readiness, while critics expressed concerns about the potential militarization of space and the cost implications of creating a new military branch.

• Legislative Process: Following the announcement, the establishment of the Space Force required legislative approval, leading to discussions and eventual authorization as part of the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act.

Conclusion

President Trump’s directive to establish a Space Force marked a pivotal moment in the U.S. approach to space and military strategy. It heightened awareness and debate around space security and the evolving dynamics of space as a domain of warfare. The eventual creation of the United States Space Force in December 2019 represented a significant shift in how the U.S. military organizes and prioritizes its space operations.