Space Force and Industry Leaders Warn of Critical Gaps in Orbital Intelligence

Aerospace & Air ForceSpace TechSpatial Intelligence

The U.S. Space Force and industry leaders are sounding the alarm on critical gaps in orbital intelligence, emphasizing the need for space domain awareness and resilience.

TL;DR
• The U.S. Space Force and industry leaders are warning of critical gaps in orbital intelligence.
• These gaps include understanding the intentions and capabilities of adversaries in space.
• The Space Force is investing in test and training infrastructure to address these gaps.

Summary
The U.S. Space Force faces a critical need to deepen its understanding of adversary capabilities and intentions in orbit, a theme highlighted during a GovMilSpace panel at SATShow 2026. The discussion underscored the gap between tracking objects and interpreting their purpose, prompting calls for enhanced intelligence and resilience.

Former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine moderated a session where retired Air Force Colonel Lee Rosen, CEO of ThinkOrbital, and Brig. Gen. Nick Hague, Space Force Assistant Deputy Chief of Space Operations, outlined the current limitations in orbital intelligence. Rosen emphasized the difficulty of attributing hostile actions, citing Russian nuclear concealment and Chinese satellite refueling as examples. He proposed using X‑ray imaging to peer inside adversary satellites, aiming to reveal hidden payloads and operational intent.

Rosen also highlighted ThinkOrbital’s collaboration with Space Systems Command on forward‑basing concepts, including microgravity welding that could assemble large structures rapidly. This capability would enable the Space Force to deploy sizable assets—potentially four times the International Space Station’s volume—within weeks, enhancing rapid response and deterrence. The approach mirrors layered defense strategies used for aircraft carriers, suggesting a shift toward proactive space infrastructure.

Brig. Gen. Hague stressed that space superiority hinges on domain awareness beyond mere object tracking. With over 10,000 satellites and 50,000 debris pieces monitored, the Force must interpret intent to preempt threats. He outlined plans to invest in test and training infrastructure, conduct large‑scale exercises, and embed resilience into operations to neutralize first‑mover advantages. Hague urged continuous readiness, framing space as a 24/7 warfighting domain.

Collectively, the panel’s insights point to a future where the Space Force integrates advanced sensing, rapid construction, and resilient operational frameworks. By addressing intelligence gaps and fostering adaptive capabilities, the service aims to safeguard critical satellite functions—missile warning, communications, and navigation—ensuring uninterrupted support for joint forces and national security.

As the space domain continues to evolve, it's essential for the Space Force and industry leaders to prioritize space domain awareness and resilience to address these critical gaps.