Accession Number:

AD1173544

Title:

Space Competition and the Dynamics of Conflict: Using Game Theory and Artificial Intelligence to Gain Strategic Insight

Descriptive Note:

[Technical Report, Research Report]

Corporate Author:

RAND CORP SANTA MONICA CA

Personal Author(s):

• Triezenberg, Bonnie
• Langeland, Krista
• Downing, Bryce

Report Date:

2022-07-06

Pagination or Media Count:

144

Abstract:

The authors of this report summarize research to date about using a game theoretic model of competition and cooperation in outer space to examine the dynamics of conflict there, short of wars of total destruction. In 2014, the RAND Corporation began developing a game-theoretic model to assess strategic implications of investments in space capabilities by the United States and a competitor nation. In projects since, we built on traditional game theory to provide a context-rich assessment of how nation-state investments may play out over a range of possible futures. Although prior published research using this model explored the impact of investments on deterring horizontal escalation of a terrestrial war into outer space, this report focuses on the dynamics of space competition in the context of limited space war. This report provides a summary of the aspects of our work that should be of interest to a general audience of space policymakers and potential warfighters.

Descriptors:

• game theory
• warfare
• artificial satellites
• national security
• space force
• artificial intelligence
• data science
• space situational awareness
• earth orbits
• psychology
• space objects
• surveillance
• lepidoptera
• lessons learned
• regression analysis
• space surveillance
• computer programs

Subject Categories:

• Unmanned Spacecraft
• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics

Distribution Statement:

[A, Approved For Public Release]