In article ,
Sander Vesik wrote:
So are the oceans, but few people protest the existence of the US Navy.
Folks taking this line need to explain why they think space is different.

Firstly, teh oceans are not really like the space.

Why?

...and thirdly, US is not going to nearly the same
extents to deny others access to the oceans, unlike the space.

The purpose of attack submarines is to deny others access to the oceans
(by sinking ships and other submarines). Compute how much the US
attack-sub fleet has cost. Compare it to the budget for the "space
control" efforts. You will find the comparison instructive. Hint:
the first number has noticeably more digits than the second.

There are more than a few surface ships with similar functions too. Not
to mention aircraft and missile systems. Plus a whole bunch of support
functions, e.g. the SOSUS sonar network and an assortment of satellites.
All devoted to denying others access to the oceans, when required.

Of course, there's also that unpleasant-sounding part about attacking
ground targets from space. Now, if you thought the attack-sub fleet was
expensive, try pricing ballistic-missile subs, whose job is to attack
ground targets from the ocean. When you've gotten past your sticker
shock on them, try pricing supercarriers and their attack aircraft.
--
"Think outside the box -- the box isn't our friend." | Henry Spencer
-- George Herbert |