[adamyoshida]

Agreed. Mastery of space will do little to stop terrorists. But it will do a lot to stop the Chinese and Europeans.

The only way, ultimately, to stop terrorists is to kill them- up close and personal.

Frankly, although some have criticized the 'National Guard' concept- such a force would be needed in the event of a major biological event. How else do you maintain civil order in such a situation, or complete major reconstruction and moblization after a serious nuclear attack? A large pool of ready manpower is needed.

[Filibuster_60]

Actually I don't think it'll be a one-sided affair. If the Chinese, Russians and Europeans team up they could probably counter US space dominance, even if it takes them some years to do it. They all have a vested interest in stopping us from gaining control of the high ground and won't have much trouble enlisting the political support of the rest of the world.