The Army intends to support initiatives which satisfy not only common user requirements like those included in the list above, but also Army unique requirements for space. Downlinking of strategic systems to tactical levels, is limited in depth of coverage. Tactical reconnaissance, though valuable at all levels, is limited in depth of coverage. It provides timely, critical, detailed information needed by corps commanders and below. National assets are responsible for collection throughout the Unified Commander's area of responsibility, particularly beyond the capability of theater-assigned reconnaissance resources.
National systems provide the first reconnaissance available to a force entering a hostile area.
In defensive operations, these systems assist the commander in disrupting the enemy's tempo and synchronization. The Army will use space capabilities to enhance the execution of its doctrine. In addition, the Army will likely be a smaller force with more and varied missions, all in the midst of increasing uncertainty. Only space systems can provide global, continuous, and near-continuous coverage and connectivity to allow the Army to execute its mission effectively. They are particularly important where the operational area lacks the infrastructure to support Army operations and where the US has limited or no forward presence.