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SPACECOM Needs Enhanced Capabilities to Target Space Adversaries

September 16, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

SPACECOM lacks capabilities to target adversary space systems.
Targeting in space domain is maturing but incomplete.
SPACECOM needs real-time battlespace awareness.
Space control is a cornerstone of US military operations.

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Strategic Implications

The lack of robust targeting capabilities in space may indicate a significant vulnerability in US military operations. SPACECOM's focus on space domain awareness suggests a recognition of the need for proactive warfighting capabilities in the space domain, which could have significant implications for the development of counterspace operations and the pursuit of space superiority.

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What Happened

US Space Command Seeks Improved Space Domain Awareness

US Space Command (SPACECOM) Commander Gen. Stephen Whiting emphasized the need for enhanced capabilities to target adversary space systems in a conflict. Whiting stated that SPACECOM lacks robust target folders and real-time battlespace awareness, hindering its ability to execute battle management. He also highlighted the importance of space domain awareness (SDA) in achieving space superiority. The comments were made at the annual Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies (AMOS) conference, as reported by Breaking Defense.

Source | Originally Published: September 16, 2026

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