With the increased
military significance of space-based capabilities, the line between military
and civilian space assets is becoming increasingly blurred. As the
international community deliberates on the legal framework for safe operations
in space, this ‘dual-use’ dilemma presents unique challenges. It is critical to
ensure the responsible and sustainable use of outer space through a coordinated
approach to the conduct of space operations. As congestion in space grows,
there is pressure for states to secure their military (including dual-use)
space assets from both deliberate and unintentional threats. However,
government strategies relating to space security and space safety may have
opposing underlying approaches. This article will consider how dual-use space
assets pose a challenge for the balancing of national security objectives
against the need for global cooperation to create a space rules framework. In
balancing these objectives, it is also necessary for states to consider the
concerns of private satellite operators, whose commercial activities are
increasingly affected by evolving security postures. It will also explore
whether the development of norms for behaviour in space operations, space
traffic management (STM) and critical infrastructure protection could be
utilized as a critical tool for enhancing space security. By examining how
principles for satellite operations, collision avoidance and restrictive zones
can reduce the risk of accidents and intentional interference, this article
highlights the role of space safety norms in preventing conflicts and promoting
stability in outer space.