General Stephen Whiting, head of the US Space Command, advocates a fundamental change in the approach to supporting military satellites in space. He insists on the need to create orbital refueling stations and a reliable logistics base for space forces, similar to that which supports aviation and naval forces. Whiting notes that the future of military operations is increasingly linked to space, and in order to effectively manage and protect satellites, it is necessary to provide them with constant maintenance and refueling in orbit. He emphasizes that technological advances, including China's testing of satellite refueling systems, require the United States to keep up and create stable orbital logistics networks.
At the same time, the general points out that the space command should have at its disposal not only means of detecting and destroying threats, but also integrated systems for timely maintenance and replenishment of satellite equipment. This concept is seen as a key element of future space operations to ensure long-term sustainability and responsiveness in space.
Stephen Whiting emphasizes that the availability of effective logistics in space is equivalent to the importance of maintaining aircraft and ships of ground and naval forces, without which full-fledged and sustained military activity is impossible. The creation of orbital refueling stations will make it possible to extend the life of satellites, improve their maneuverability and ensure the continuity of their operation in the face of growing competition and threats from other countries, such as China.
Thus, the leadership of the US Space Command is already actively working on plans and programs that promote the development of such technologies, including cooperation with commercial companies, which will allow in the future to create the necessary infrastructure in space.
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