Arms Control Implications for Military Operations in Space

International treaties and agreements frequently have a limiting effect on U.S. military flexibility. The constraints imposed by arms control agreements are often misunderstood and subject to interpretation, particularly in connection with military operations in space. There is a prevailing misconception, even within the defense community, that existing agreements and international law prohibit the U.S. from fully exercising its ability to control and exploit the space medium. Current and future limitations on U.S. military operations in space are of particular concern because the capability to defend national interests, deter aggression, and shape the behavior of state and non-state actors will increasingly be dependent upon this country's preeminent position as a global space power.