There may not be the need - I don't know the answer. I think the consolidation makes sense, but it would require a detailed analysis and assessment.
One answer could be to consolidate all space functions in the Air Force, since their space mission is: "Deliver space and missile capabilities to America and its warfighting commands." That sounds pretty comprehensive, assuming they could actually do it.
Where I see the need is in all of the overhead. All of those commands listed have staff, infrastructure, administrative overhead.
As we are increasingly asked to "do more with less", we should not rule out considering ways in which we may be able to do it more efficiently.
Not addressed to you specifically, but many of the responses thus far seem to fall into the "we've always done it that way" or "why should we change" categories.
I'm asking - why shouldn't we change? Is it possible we could create a more efficient organization? And, if so, would the expense - and any subsequent disadvantages (i.e. risks) - of creating that organization be worth it?
This is not a radical position. Consider the following:
“Future Steps”
Commission to Assess US National Security
Space Management and Organization, pp. 93-95
- “. . . Once the realignment in the Air Force is complete, a logical step toward a Space Department could be to transition from the new Air Force Space Command to a Space Corps within the Air Force.” p. 93
- “The timetable, which is not possible to predict, would be dictated by circumstances of the next five to ten years.” p. 94
(Comment - This report was finalized in early 2001. We are very near the end of the "five to ten year" timetable.)
- “Finally, an evolution to a Space Corps could involve integration of the Air Force and NRO acquisition and operations activities for space systems.” p. 94
REF: Commission and Panel Recommendations (PDF, 1.3 MB)
Page numbers refer to Chapter VI, Organizing and Managing for the Future (PDF, 0.6 MB), of the Commission's report.
And, from the Executive Summary (PDF, 2.8 MB) of The Commission to Assess United States National Security Space Management and Organization:
The Department of Defense requires space systems that can be employed in independent operations or in support of air, land and sea forces to deter and defend against hostile actions directed at the interests of the United States. In the mid term a Space Corps within the Air Force may be appropriate to meet this requirement; in the longer term it may be met by a military department for space. (emphasis added)
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