ABSTRACT
Since the earliest times, humans have attempted to use technology to achieve decisive, strategic effect in war. Whether using the trireme, longbow, trébuchet, artillery, tank, or airplane, military strategists have modified operational style for the pursuit of victory in conflict. This condition will not change, as long as there is competition between states and groups in which violence and military action are viewed as possible solutions.
This chapter addresses the influence of technology on the conduct of warfare and the development of strategy, as well as technology’s expected role in the development and execution of a practical space strategy. Historical examples of novel technology will be examined, including the maritime application of early aircraft, the use of submarines during both World Wars, nuclear deterrence during the Cold War, and philosophies on using technology for strategic advantage like the Third Offset. These lessons are used to suggest how technology should be used in space warfare to achieve strategic effect in support of offensive and defensive strategies.
