U.S. Chamber Says Space Technology Critical to Terrorism War

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Space Enterprise Council of the United States Chamber of Commerce today gathered government leaders and business executives to examine the key role satellite imaging and other commercial space technologies are playing in the war on terrorism and to encourage public-private partnerships in anti-terrorism efforts.

"Satellites provided the first pictures of the World Trade Center and Pentagon disasters and are fueling military-intelligence efforts in Afghanistan," said Greg Lebedev, Chamber executive vice president for international affairs and national security. "Such public-private collaboration is critical to our security at home and abroad and should be expanded."

High-resolution imaging from commercial satellites – or remote sensing – provides the government with sharp, precise pictures for battlefield simulations and mission planning, as well as damage assessment from terrorist attacks.

"Remote sensing is a key part of the war on terrorism," said Lebedev. "And that explains the government's swift move to purchase all commercial satellite imaging time over Afghanistan."

To further enhance national security, the Space Enterprise Council advocates more government purchasing of space technologies from the private sector, streamlining of licensing processes for the operation of commercial remote-sensing systems, and transparency in regulatory policies and long-term government funding commitments to encourage investment in future-generation imaging satellites.

Today's Chamber symposium – "Homeland Security – Defeating Terrorism in the 21st Century" – included remarks by Rep. Chris Shays (R-CT), chairman of the House National Security Subcommittee, and panel discussions with industry representatives detailing the importance of space technologies to the war effort, insurance and risk management, emergency response, law enforcement, and public health and safety.

The United States Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector and region.

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