U.S. military prepares for defense in lunar and cis-lunar space

U.S. military leaders are outlining a strategic shift toward defending interests in space, specifically targeting the cis-lunar region between Earth and the Moon. General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, emphasized the necessity for the armed forces to adapt to combat and sustain operations from the ocean floor to space.

Lieutenant General Gregory Gagnon of the Space Force Combat Forces Command noted that intelligence indicates potential adversaries, specifically China, are actively working to extend warfare into space. To counter these threats, the Space Force plans to double its size over the next five years.

Air Force Secretary Troy Meink highlighted the need to accelerate responses to AI-driven threats. He advocated for a tighter integration of manned and autonomous systems, including the deployment of thousands of expendable attack drones and collaborative combat aircraft. The strategy focuses on utilizing AI, proliferated constellations, and interceptor technology to match the rapid tempo of modern, technology-driven conflict.