What's Happening?
The Space Force's Schriever Wargame, held at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama, is concluding after a two-week session involving over 350 participants from U.S. industry and allied militaries. The wargame focused on identifying nascent technologies needed for space operations in the next decade, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Five notional technology concepts were explored, including space domain awareness and communication tools. Space Delta 10 Commander Col. Shannon DaSilva highlighted the collaborative nature of the event, aiming to integrate future investment discussions and partner capabilities. The exercise is part of the Space Force's ongoing effort to define its objective force design for the next 10 to 15 years.
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Why It's Important?
The Schriever Wargame is crucial for shaping the Space Force's strategic direction and capabilities. By identifying future technologies and fostering international collaboration, the Space Force aims to enhance its operational readiness and interoperability with allies. This initiative could lead to significant advancements in space domain awareness and communication, impacting U.S. defense strategies and global security. The wargame's outcomes may influence policy decisions and acquisition approaches, potentially benefiting U.S. industries involved in space technology development.
What's Next?
Following the wargame, the Space Force plans to publish an evaluation report detailing lessons learned and seeking input from international partners. This report marks a new step in codifying the wargame process and enhancing collaboration. Future wargames may involve joint objective setting with participating nations, aiming for more internationally focused operational concepts. The Space Force is also considering hosting wargames in other countries, although logistical challenges exist due to U.S.-based gaming infrastructure.
Beyond the Headlines
The Schriever Wargame's shift towards international collaboration reflects broader geopolitical dynamics in space exploration and defense. As space becomes an increasingly contested domain, fostering partnerships and shared objectives can mitigate risks and enhance collective security. This approach aligns with global trends towards multilateralism in addressing complex challenges, such as space debris management and satellite security.