Podcast: Space Planes, Space Control And Space Domain Awareness

Robert Wall Guy Norris Vivienne Machi May 12, 2026

Aviation Week editors discuss how space control is front and center for the U.S. Space Force, allied services and adversaries.

Subscribe Now

Don't miss a single episode of the award-winning Check 6. Follow us in Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Discover all of our podcasts at aviationweek.com/podcasts

AI-Generated Summary

The podcast delves into the rapidly evolving domain of military space, focusing on the strategic advancements and investments by the U.S. Space Force and other global players like China and Russia.

The discussion highlights the Space Force's new focus on "space control," akin to the Navy's freedom of navigation, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to navigate and operate in space freely. This shift is reflected in the significant budget increase for space control, from $6.7 billion in 2026 to $18 billion in 2027.

The conversation also touches on the classified nature of many capabilities, including defensive and offensive measures like satellite shielding and signal jamming. The podcast explores the competitive landscape, with China and Russia demonstrating advanced technologies and maneuvers, such as "dogfighting" in space. The Space Force's concern about these developments is shared by European allies, who have observed similar activities.

The episode also discusses the importance of space domain awareness and the role of maneuverable satellites and space planes, like the X-37B, in maintaining strategic advantage. The conversation concludes with insights into the Space Force's acquisition strategies, including rapid satellite development and on-orbit refueling tests, highlighting the need for agility and scalability in space operations.

Key Topics:

Military Space Advancements
Space Control and Navigation
Budget Increases for Space Force
Defensive and Offensive Space Capabilities
Global Space Competition
Space Domain Awareness
Role of Space Planes and Satellites
Space Force Acquisition Strategies

Robert Wall

Email: [email protected]

Robert Wall is Executive Editor for Defense and Space. Based in London, he directs a team of military and space journalists across the U.S., Europe and Asia-Pacific.