Surviving the First Strike: Proliferated Architectures and Rapid Reconstitution in Low Earth Orbit
Space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance has shifted from a small number of exquisite, high-value satellites in higher orbits to dense constellations… 
Space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance has shifted from a small number of exquisite, high-value satellites in higher orbits to dense constellations of smaller spacecraft operating primarily in low Earth orbit. This change is driven by the recognition that traditional architectures are highly vulnerable to both kinetic anti-satellite weapons and non-kinetic effects such as jamming, dazzling, and cyber intrusion. Proliferation – placing hundreds or thousands of satellites into orbit – aims to ensure that the loss of individual platforms degrades rather than eliminates capability. The National Reconnaissance Office’s proliferated architecture program, which…
