National Space Policy : International Comparison of Policy and the ‘ Gray Zone ’
Zone activities calls upon nations with significant influence , both regionally and internationally , to create operating standards in the space domain . The U . S . has partnered with nations large and small ; however , it is time the U . S . begins discussion about Gray Zone activity and its impact to those cooperation agreements and space capabilities .
As China continues to seek out space capability cooperation agreements with regions such as Latin America , it imperative to identify the impact of Gray Zone activity . China has implemented the BRI in an effort to sustain and gain regional influence ( Rolland et al ., 2019 ). However , as China continues to expand its economic influence , they fail to identify the impact of Gray Zone activity on such initiatives . China succeeded in gaining regional influence through coercive tactics and international influence . However , China must be cautious on how it approaches the implementation of the BRI as nations , such as India highlights the financial burdens it imposes .
Conversely , India is working toward promoting and enhancing socioeconomics . However , the development of India ’ s nuclear and missile program has created hesitation for nations , like the U . S ., to enter bilateral space cooperation agreements ( Bommakanti , 2019 ). India must evaluate the current tensions with China and assess the value of having space cooperation agreements with the U . S . A space cooperation agreement with the U . S . would not only enhance socioeconomics , but also potentially deter Gray Zone activity domestically .
Furthermore , space cooperation agreements could possibly provide India with insight into a strategic framework for developing space capabilities and enhance India ’ s space operations .
Although , agreements have been established to promote the peaceful use of space , space capability development , and data sharing agreements , nations must consider the challenges of the Gray Zone . The aim of Gray Zone activity is to influence or coerce other nations without directly violating legal agreements or directives ( Dalton et al ., 2019 ). Nations are doing exceptionally in creating agreements for the development of space capabilities and cooperation in Human Space Flight . However , as space capabilities begin to develop , acknowledging the Gray Zone is vital to maintaining , sustaining , and promoting the peaceful use space .
As the international community continues to promote space domain exploration and research , they must also reflect on Gray Zone activities and its impact to space policy . Although this research highlighted several different aspects to include strategy and cooperation , it is vital to see the interconnectedness these aspects play in the development of space policy . Furthermore , this research highlights areas in which nations such as the U . S ., China , and India must seek to enhance and / or create space policy to tackle the challenges of Gray Zone activity . The space domain creates a breeding ground for Gray Zone activity . The ambiguous nature of space and its capabilities call upon all nations to protect and preserve the
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