Space and Air Force: Rhetoric or Reality?

The Air Force, as part of its vision for the 21st century, claims to be an Air and Space Force transitioning to a Space and Air Force. In order to reach the goal of becoming a Space and Air Force, or using more recent terminology an Aerospace Force, the Air Force must first understand the need for space and how space can be applied to meet requirements set forth in the National Security Strategy (NSS). Joint Vision 2010, the Air Force’s Global Engagement, and several long-range plans all establish requirements that can only be fulfilled through the application of spacepower. To capitalize on the full potential of space, the Air and Space Force must cultivate a complete understanding of the medium (space-mindedness), modify the current National Space Policy and international agreement obligations, develop new space doctrine, and fund and acquire new space systems. A complete understanding of the space medium or ＂space-mindedness＂ can be achieved by educating the American public, the national and military leadership, and the space leadership in particular.

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