Military Wants More Global Partnerships in Space

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pentagon leaders say that as space becomes increasingly crowded, the military needs to better protect its satellites and strengthen its ability to use them as weapons.

A new military strategy for space calls for greater cooperation with other nations on space-based programs to improve America's ability to deter enemies.

As the U.S. and other countries depend more on their satellites for critical data, those assets become greater targets for enemies.

The Pentagon says its new plan stresses the peaceful use of space. But it also underscores the importance of orbiting satellites in both waging and deterring war.

Pentagon leaders say space has become more congested, competitive and contested, and the U.S. needs to keep pace.