Since the 1940s, the nature of space operations and the need to develop a space power theory has been debated. In an attempt to formulate such a theory, both theorists and strategists have noted the similarities of space operations with those of air and naval operations. Consequently, many have attempted to derive a theory of space warfare through analogy to either air or naval models. This thesis concludes, however, that both air and naval models fail to capture the true breadth of pertinent national and strategic issues regarding space operations and activities. Yet by expanding the purview of naval operations to include maritime operations, which incorporates the interaction between the land and sea, the full extent and nature of space operations can be adequately modelled. Furthermore, by using a maritime theory based predominantly on the work of Sir Julian Corbett, a suitable strategic framework can be defined and relevant principles extrapolated. The resulting strategic principles, although not entirely in agreement with conventional wisdom, encompass many of the current observations and ideas regarding national interests and military operations in space. Moreover, from these resulting strategic principles of space warfare, the best space strategies, along with specific tactical recommendations, for emerging, medium, and super powers can be deduced.

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