Satellite communications are in short supply. Networks are defenseless against cyber attacks. Spacecraft cost too much. And the acquisition process is out of touch/.../
One of the reasons why the Pentagon is in a tough spot regarding space programs is poor planning, said Todd Harrison, senior analyst at the Center for Strategic and Budgetary assessments, who recently completed a study on military space.
Most satellites last 10 to 15 years, so there is still no sense of urgency, Harrison told reporters at a CSBA news conference. “The problem is that we have to start building systems now. We have to think what capabilities we need. It takes that long to design, build and launch new constellations.”
Harrison said the study was unveiled precisely to coincide with the Defense Department’s plan to redesign its satcom architecture. Since the cancellation of TSAT, he said, the strategy has been to “buy more of what we have.” That is not a bad thing, considering the Pentagon’s track record with satellite and terminal programs, said Harrison. “Our recommendation is, ‘Don't start new programs.’”
Projections for military spending do not bode well for space programs, he said. Any attempt to start a new procurement would probably fail because eventually the Pentagon will decide that the system is unaffordable, he added. Satellites are just as vulnerable to programmatic threats as they are to physical attacks, he said. “Cost overruns and funding instability are serious concerns.”
Before new programs are launched, the Defense Department should rethink the way it buys systems, said Harrison. Buyers need to become more disciplined as they forecast future requirements, he said. Space program offices also should reduce staff and streamline bureaucracies to help lower costs, said Harrison. “That would be an important first step.”
Next would be to consolidate programs, budgets and operations under one service. The Air Force already has the majority of the responsibility, but programs such as MUOS prove the need for further consolidation, Harrison said. “We should reduce redundancy across the services.”