British strategy and outer space: A missing link?

Abstract

Britain sees itself as a significant power which upholds global norms and deploys expeditionary military force around the world. But no matter what role Britain wants for itself, it cannot do so without spacepower and considering its freedom of action in the common of outer space. This reality of international relations in the 21st century is a missing link in British strategic thought. This article provides context for a discussion of Britain in space and on whether it should acquire an Earth observation capability, as it is an essential pillar of critical infrastructure and military capabilities that enables what freedom of action is purchased by new aircraft carriers and 5th generation aircraft. The United Kingdom is assess as a secondary space power relative to other major space powers, and considers the risks posed to it by its military integration with America and commercial and space industrial integration with Europe.