The Decline in U.S. Power In Outer Space

Robert S. Mueller III, the F.B.I. director; Mike McConnell, director of national intelligence; and Gen. Michael V. Hayden, director of the Central Intelligence Agency, at a February hearing. (Photo from the New York Times)

Tension May Feed Decline of U.S. Power in Space
-- Washington Post

Differences between the Pentagon and intelligence agencies over capabilities to be built into future U.S. satellites have led to delayed starts in new programs and may result in a decline in U.S. space dominance, according to a new report by the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.

The underlying issue, according to two members of the committee, is the traditional tension that exists between the needs of two customers: intelligence agencies, which want to gather strategic information for policymakers, and the Defense Department, which requires tactical information for war fighters.

"Recent organizational changes and inter-departmental agreements involving the Office of Director of National Intelligence (DNI), the Department of Defense, and the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) have highlighted the question of leadership of space acquisition programs," the committee report says.

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My Comment: A classic example of what happens when you lack leadership, vision and direction, and a will to make sure your objectives are met.