Critical Issues Related to Space and Cyberspace

AIR955A-DISCUSSION 1: SPACE AND CYBERSPACE
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AIR955A-Discussion 1: Space and Cyberspace
Question 1: Briefly outline, and make the case for what you assess to be the most critical issue related to space.
The power competition spearheaded by global powers such as China and Russia challenges the US security environment, which places space defense as the critical issue related to space. According to Moltz (2019, 66), space is a key component in the US’ scientific objectives and security, hence the need to embrace robust investments, strategies, and exceptional talents to guarantee the country’s success in the warfighting domain. The space program significantly influences the country’s economic and military superiority/prosperity or global security. The presence of other global superpowers, such as China, which seeks global hegemony and superiority, threatens US space prosperity. In fact, at the moment, Russian and Chinese counter-space capabilities, strategies and resources, including military doctrines, are often employed, signaling conflict (Department of Defense 2020, 1). Space defense remains a critical issue since other economies have weaponized it, signaling an end to US space freedom and military effectiveness. Since it is an indispensable military and economic power component, the status quo is likely to change in favor of competing factions such as Russia. Space is a key element in US prosperity. Apart from the strategic benefits, it guarantees operational security and generational of impactful technologies, among other opportunities that benefit the country, hence the need to embrace a defense mechanism. The Department of Defense is compelled to embrace robust measures and strategies, including cooperation with allies and policy changes to maintain space superiority (Department of Defense 2020, 6). Maintaining the states’ ingenuity and space supremacy requires partnering with like-minded allies, ultimately alleviating China and Russia’s influence (NASA 2020, 3). This can also include adopting National Security Space Strategy recommendations, including strengthening the country’s space architectural resilience to impede foreseeable attacks (Homeland Defense & Global Security 2015, 1-3). Space is currently a source of global supremacy battles and has notable economic benefits, hence the need for robust defense measures.
Question 2: Briefly outline, and make the case for what you assess to be the most critical issue related to cyberspace.
The most critical issue related to cyberspace is cybersecurity. As Wilshusen and Barkakati write (2013, 2), the U...