War in Space - by Bleddyn E Bowen (Paperback)

About the Book

This book presents a theory of spacepower and considers the implications of space technology on strategy and international relations.

Book Synopsis

Applying strategic theory to outer space and drawing out the implications for international relations
Offers a definitive and original vision of space warfare that theorises often-overlooked aspects of contemporary space activities based in the discipline of Strategic Studies. This original research draws out the implications of spacepower for wider debate in grand strategy and IR.Applies the theory in a topical and contentious area within contemporary grand strategy - anti-access and area-denial warfare in the Taiwan Strait between China and America.Key principles are summarised in seven propositions to make the key take-aways of theory applicable and memorable for researchers and practitioners.This book presents a theory of spacepower and considers the implications of space technology on strategy and international relations. The spectre of space warfare stalks the major powers as outer space increasingly defines geopolitical and military competition. As satellites have become essential for modern warfare, strategists are asking whether the next major war will begin or be decided in outer space. Only strategic theory can explore the decisiveness and effects of war in space upon `grand strategy' and international relations.
The author applies the wisdom of military strategy to outer space, and presents a compelling new vision of Earth orbit as a coastline, rather than an open ocean or an extension of airspace as many have assumed. Rooted in the classical military works of Clausewitz, Mahan, and Castex to name a few, this book presents comprehensive principles for strategic thought about space that explain the pervasive and inescapable influence of spacepower on strategy and the changing military balance of the 21st century.

From the Back Cover

'War in Space delivers groundbreaking insights using traditional continental sea power theory as a template for strengthening space power theory. The largest contribution to space power thought in a generation, Bowen's seminal ideas are destined to inform wide audiences and guide our way ahead as space becomes increasingly contested and the USA stands up its Space Force.' Peter L. Hays, Space Policy Institute, George Washington University Applying strategic theory to outer space and drawing out the implications for international relations This book presents a theory of spacepower and considers the implications of space technology on strategy and international relations. The spectre of space warfare stalks the major powers as outer space increasingly defines geopolitical and military competition. As satellites have become essential for modern warfare, strategists are asking whether the next major war will begin or be decided in outer space. Only strategic theory can explore the decisiveness and effects of war in space upon 'grand strategy' and international relations. The author applies the wisdom of military strategy to outer space and presents a compelling new vision of Earth orbit as a coastline, rather than an open ocean or an extension of airspace as many have assumed. Rooted in the classical military works of Clausewitz, Mahan and Castex to name a few, this book presents comprehensive principles for strategic thought about space that explain the pervasive and inescapable influence of spacepower on strategy and the changing military balance of the 21st century. Bleddyn E. Bowen is a Lecturer in International Relations at the University of Leicester.

Review Quotes

War in Space delivers groundbreaking insights using traditional continental sea power theory as a template for strengthening space power theory. The largest contribution to space power thought in a generation, Bowen's seminal ideas are destined to inform wide audiences and guide our way ahead as space becomes increasingly contested and the USA stands up its Space Force.-- "Peter L. Hays, Space Policy Institute, George Washington University"

War in Space: Strategy, Spacepower, Geopolitics arrives on the scene in a timely fashion to provide a spacepower theory while pushing back at some dominant voices in the field [...] Any school in the professional military education system--regardless of service--could benefit from this book's timeless approach [...] Similarly, all military historians wanting to stay up to date on current national security issues and those with a broader interest in strategy will be rewarded by reading this interesting and provocative book.--Heather P. Venable, Air Command and Staff College "H-War"

All analogies have their perils, but Bowen's notion of space as coastline works when it comes to space weapons.--Tom Stevenson "London Review of Books"

Dr Bowen is a leading spacepower thinker and this book is the culmination of 8 year's work. It is an impressive and comprehensive study which makes a significant contribution to spacepower theory and will undoubtedly take its place on the essential reading lists of universities and defence academies around the world.--Andy Netherwood "Wavell Room"

Dr. Bowen has added a number of interesting and provocative statements on the nature of spacepower that are worthy of continued debate and discussion.--John Sislin, National Intelligence University "Quest: The History of Spaceflight"

War in Space is unquestionably a must-read book--Augusto C. Dall'Agnol "E-International Relations"

About the Author

Bleddyn Bowen is a Lecturer in International Relations at the University of Leicester. He is an established expert in strategy, space warfare and the military uses of outer space. His work has been published in a number of key journals, including The Journal of Strategic Studies, The British Journal of International Relations, Astropolitics, and the RUSI Journal. Bleddyn frequently contributes to news broadcasting and professional blogs and convenes the Astropolitics Collective research group.