In the evolving landscape of global geopolitics, the strategic significance of space as a domain for national power and international competition is increasingly evident. The shift from viewing space as a sanctuary and shared heritage of humanity to a competitive and militarized arena marks a new era of 'astro-geopolitics'. This transformation is driven by the realization among nations that space power—encompassing military, economic, and diplomatic dimensions—is integral to national security, technological supremacy, and geopolitical influence. Within this context, the role of the Middle East in shaping the future of space power is becoming increasingly significant, reflecting broader ambitions and strategic calculations.
The United States has long been the dominant force in space, leveraging its advanced capabilities for national defense, scientific exploration, and economic innovation. However, the rapid ascent of China's space program, with its ambitious goals and burgeoning capabilities, threatens to challenge U.S. supremacy and alter the strategic balance in space by 2030. Russia's focus on offensive counter-space capabilities and India's fast-paced advancement in space technology further contribute to the shifting dynamics of global space power.
