U.S. Space Command operators, led by Gen. Stephen Whiting, are in need of a way to maneuver satellites to prevent enemies from chasing them until they run out of fuel. The Space Force has been emphasizing the importance of maneuvering in space, but there is uncertainty about the utility and cost of on-orbit refueling. Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant has stated that it may be more cost-effective to put up another satellite rather than refuel existing ones.
Whiting emphasized the importance of maneuvering through multiple orbits and chasing threats in non-traditional areas where the U.S. doesn’t typically operate. The Space Force is exploring dynamic space operations and assessing the benefits versus costs of on-orbit refueling, especially as they transition to a proliferated architecture of cheap satellites in low-Earth orbit.
There is skepticism about the practicality and affordability of launching large satellites to perform refueling missions in geosynchronous orbit. Despite this, the Space Force has allocated funds in its 2025 budget request for analysis and initial demonstrations of dynamic space operations. The contract has also been awarded to Starfish Space to demonstrate on-orbit maneuver and maintenance in 2026.
