Basic Fighter Manoeuvres in Space

Strategists are championing the development of ‘dynamic space operations’, prematurely heralding the end of positional dominance. However, basic fighter manoeuvres need to be properly understood so that meaningful progress can be made towards dynamism and advanced space combat. Michael Edward Lambert addresses three core tactics as part of a classification of on-orbit activities. Subsequent analysis offers considerations for decision-makers and space operations practitioners to defend against them. This taxonomy provides a framework for interpreting on-orbit behaviour with implications for deterrence, escalation management and capability development, enabling better understanding of strategic risk in space.