Makena Young, Center for Strategic and International Studies; Akhil Thadani, Center for Strategic and International Studies
Keywords: space policy, constellation, space-based assets, space environment
Abstract:
This policy paper will assess the economic and strategic implications of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite consteallations and make recommendations for advancing U.S. interests in the broadband internet competition. The competition to provide broadband from low Earth orbit (LEO) is one of the most important, least appreciated geostrategic developments underway. Policymakers in Washington and many allied capitals now appreciate the risks that Chinese vendors pose in 5G networks, subsea cables, and other vital communications links. But they have yet to consider the economic and strategic implications of LEO satellite constellations, which promise to dramatically improve coverage in underserved markets and bring more of the world online. In addition to reaping vast commercial rewards, nations with leading LEO broadband providers could enjoy increased resiliency in their communications, accuracy in positioning services, and even enhanced early warning capabilities. An elite group of companies, primarily from the United States and Europe with competition emerging from China, are on the cutting edge of these efforts. As the LEO competition intensifies, policymakers need an accessible guide to these developments. The project explains aims and status of major LEO broadband efforts, and why this second wave is more likely to succeed than the first wave in the 1990s; inventories relevant national security applications as well as the commercial stakes, including in the developing world; describes how LEO constellations are changing the space environment and associated risks; and suggests actions and implementation steps for specific actors.
Date of Conference: September 27-20, 2022
Track: Space-Based Assets