Hide Your Shape Sun Tzu: ROE Considerations for Negating High-Resolution Commercial Imagery Satellites

摘要

During 1999, the first commercial satellite capable of producing imagery with 1-meter resolution will be launched. This event is significant because 1-meter resolution is considered as the baseline for military grade imagery. To counter this threat, the commander may ultimately have to take action against the space assets of a corporation that resides in a belligerent or a neutral nation. The Rules of Engagement (ROE) that would guide this attack are developed based on U.S. policy, international and domestic law, and operational considerations. An analysis of these factors indicates that there are few impediments to the execution of 'Offensive Counter-Space' operations against the commercial imaging threat. A proposal is also made for the addition of three General Supplemental Measures regarding the engagement of commercial space systems to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Instruction 3121.01, Standing Rules of Engagement.