Mitigating the Threat of Commercial Geospatial Products Using the National Instruments of Power

Military commanders understand the growing threat of commercially available satellite imagery used by adversaries to fight impending military battles. 1 US commercial imagery companies must adhere to policies, limiting enemies from obtaining imagery. However, US policies only restrict US companies and do not prohibit rogue states from purchasing, or renting satellite time from non-US imaging satellite companies. 2 The greatest threat may not be acquiring the imagery, but the availability of commercial image processing software and geospatial data products for developing tactical intelligence. Improvements in commercial satellite technology triggers upgrades in image exploitation software to mine geospatial data and formulate intelligence products. If an enemy can purchase commercial imagery or obtain geospatial tactical data, the US may not posses a superior strategic and tactical advantage.

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