[Elderberry]

As opposed to a drone?

If a drone isn't already flying in the area, how long would it take to request one to support a soldier in the field?

The small satellite capability is significant because it would be far more responsive than traditional systems. Soldiers could access 1.5-meter resolution satellite imagery within minutes.

[ptsal]

How many drones can be built, deployed, and “lost” for the amount of one satellite launch.

The space folks are wanting job security.

Go for the drone.

[Doctor DNA]

Maybe our little satellite is looking down on the opponents own drones in the target area?

[Lysandru]

The problem here is a guy named Johannes Kepler.

Satellites don't hover or fly "racetrack" patterns. And if you really want 1.5 meter resolution from a small imaging satellite, you have to fly in a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) where your viewing access to any patch of ground is a maximum of 12-15 minutes at a pop--and then the satellite goes "over the hill." If you want persistence over an AO, you can either: (a) Build a huge telescope and put it in a higher orbit or (b) Build a large number of small satellites.