NATO RTO Space Science and Technology Advisory Group (SSTAG) Recommendations for Space Research Topics

As NATO and Nations are facing increased global responsibilities for security and defence with smaller forces, the ability to meet objectives will increasingly depend on use of integral, force-enhancing support from space. In recognition of this trend for the future, the RTB established a limited-life, RTO Space Science and Technology Advisory Group SSTAG at the 18th RTB Spring Executive Session in 2005. The purpose of the SSTAG is to identify and recommend space research topics to the RTB and RTO panels for consideration. In particular, the intended goal is to ensure adequate and appropriate levels of space research in the NATO RTO in order to enhance NATO security and defence effectiveness by increasing national capability to achieve and maintain superiority via the use of modern space systems. Thus, the objective is to strengthen the ability of RTO research panels to initiate and support space research via identification of specific technical research topics that are consistent with NATOs capability needs and national interests. Recommendations were defined through a peer review process involving panel members and external colleagues from the extensive RTO Space Expert Consultant SEC network established over the past 2 years by RTO national representatives and panel members. The process included the Space Strategy Workshop held at RTA HQ in June, 2005. At this workshop, 13 nations attended and each summarized national space research priorities. Breakout sessions were held to identify specific research areas of common interest. These sessions were led by members of the SSTAG or colleagues. From this workshop, 29 topics of common interest were identified. A motivation and specific areas of potential cooperation were developed for each topic by members of the SEC network through Summer and Fall, 2005. SSTAG also sought national support for the topics through Fall, 2005.