Former Military Voices Support for Human Space Force Missions

A collective of ex-military leaders suggests that deploying humans in space could provide a significant advantage against adversaries.

In a recent report, the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies argues that integrating human capabilities into space operations is essential for attaining a tactical edge.

“Astronaut guardians may be needed to carry out missions and keep them safe that cannot be accomplished remotely.”

The Mitchell Institute identifies itself as an “independent, nonpartisan research organization” and is backed by numerous military veterans, including former Air Force leaders and a retired Space Force Colonel, Charles Galbreath, who is now the director of space research and senior resident scientist.

Galbreath summarized the findings of a recent study, indicating that dynamic space operations would require both orbital and terrestrial connections, along with necessary future space infrastructure.

He emphasizes that one of the key areas of focus should be on manned missions.

In his view, humans represent “the most flexible system ever launched into space” and may become vital for future operations.

“Right now, the Space Force has no Guardians tasked with military operations in space. However, as interest in space increases, astronaut Guardians could perform crucial missions and enhance safety in ways that remote capabilities can’t,” Galbreath stated.

He further argued that human decision-making could create “fundamental challenges” for adversaries, particularly in terms of risk calculations. For instance, targeting a satellite with no crew might pose a different level of risk for an adversary compared to harming a crewed space station.

At a recent virtual event, John Shaw, former deputy commander of the U.S. Space Force, expressed doubt about the feasibility of sending troops into space in the near term. He mentioned, “That’s probably when we’re projecting power over long distances, which brings us closer to the strong command and control capabilities that humans require for decision-making.”

Galbreath, however, argued that it’s “inevitable” to involve Guardians in space and estimated that it might take around a decade to establish such a program, citing the necessary development of training and a recruitment pipeline.

“We can’t just wake up one day and say, ‘Oh my god, the universe needs a guardian.’ We should have made that decision 10 years ago,” he stated.

The report also highlighted the need for the Space Force to explore alternative propulsion methods, conduct in-space assembly, and develop supply chains for repairs—like fixing satellites.