Space and Defense
Abstract
A strategy to safeguard United States’ space assets is needed. Deterrence strategies, like Cold War nuclear deterrence, are often recommended. Nuclear deterrence history reveals that deterrence through dominance is what early strategists employed. Both Cold War adversaries attempted repeatedly to gain the lead in nuclear weapons. Seeking short term advantages activated the security dilemma and both sides responded in kind, guaranteeing an arms race. The faulty logic of the security dilemma was that the next advantage would bring security. This did not happen and illustrated how mutual vulnerability resulted from long term and determined opposition. That condition exists to this day, made bearable by agreements and procedures that reduce fear through increased transparency and verification.
DOI
10.32873/uno.dc.sd.05.01.1150
Recommended Citation
Liller, Dwayne
(2011)
"Space Deterrence or Dominance?,"
Space and Defense: Vol. 5:
No.
0, Article 7.
DOI: 10.32873/uno.dc.sd.05.01.1150
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/spaceanddefense/vol5/iss0/7
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