US space forces conduct a strategic evaluation. Against the backdrop of rapid development of small satellites, which is cheaper to produce and run, The question arises: Is it worth investing considerable funds in the deployment of complex infrastructure in orbit?
According to Defenscoop, In the budget project on 2025 The financial year is already provided $20 million for the first experiments on refueling satellites in space. However, within the command of the US Space Forces, there are ongoing discussions about the justification of such costs and the potential military benefit from the implementation of such projects.
The planned infrastructure provides for the creation of service orbital modules, which will serve as refueling points and, potentially, will provide elements of remote maintenance. Orbit Fab and Northrop Grumman have already received contracts for testing in this direction.
The initiators of the development claim, that access to fuel in orbit will significantly improve the maneuverability of satellites, avoid collisions with space debris and extend the life of large satellites, especially in geostationary orbit. However, there are significant caveats: prolonging life with refueling does not solve wear and tear on other critical satellite systems. That is, the problem of full replacement of devices remains relevant.
in addition, large-scale implementation of the orbital service will require redistribution of budget funds, which could affect other defense space programs. Instead, in strategic circles, an alternative is being considered - the deployment of numerous cheaper small satellites. This approach provides greater flexibility, faster updating of system architecture and prompt implementation of new technologies.
The US Space Force is currently focused on testing and modeling the potential benefits of refueling in space. The final decision on the large-scale financing of this concept will be made after the completion of the relevant experiments and the evaluation of the obtained results.