Reps. Berman (D-Cal.) and Tauscher (D-Cal.) released Center for S...
Reps. Berman (D-Cal.) and Tauscher (D-Cal.) released Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) report on reforming satellite technology policy to maintain dominance in space. Report, Preserving America’s Advantage in Satellite Technology, outlines recommendations of CSIS Satellite Commission, saying…
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that if U.S. is to avoid “expensive erosion of its leadership position” in satellite market, new national strategy must be developed that accounts for current “commercial and technological realities” and national security interests and challenges. “Conflicting policies, uncertain goals and an insufficient budgeting process are weakening the technical advantage we currently have,” said Commission member Rep. Goss (R-Fla.). Satellite licensing was transferred to State from Commerce 3 years ago in 1998 Defense Authorization Act after 2 U.S. companies were accused of transferring secret satellite technology to China. White House decision whether to allow State to keep jurisdiction over U.S. satellite exports had been expected after meeting in late March, but nothing has been decided, industry source said. Satellite Industry Assn. (SIA) said it “broadly endorsed the conclusions” of CSIS report. SIA Exec. Dir. Richard Dalbello said: “Communications satellites are commercial items that should not be regulated as military technology.” He said State Dept. licensing was “slow and deliberate” and was “inadequate for fast-paced, competitive commercial world.”