A recent conference discussed whether the U.S. should adopt a strategy of "cooperative engagement" with possible rivals in space (ex. China, Russia, Iran), with the aim of steering these programs into directions favorable to U.S. interests.
"Beijing’s space aspirations pose significant security concerns for Washington. Most of China’s space programs have commercial or scientific purposes, but improved space technology could significantly improve Chinese military capabilities."
The author argues that Iran's pursuit of nuclear missiles underscores the threat to U.S. space assets.
The author warns that several countries are beginning to challenge U.S. dominance in commercial and military space.
Baker Spring looks at the proliferation of military space systems and urges the U.S. to prepare a new strategy "to prevent the proliferation of space technology while ensuring access to commercial space services for advanced as well as developing nations."