Next Space Force chief throws cold water on the idea of space privateers

Per Ars Technica, the next commander of the United States Space Force is expressing doubt about using private contractors—space privateers—for military operations in orbit. The term references a historical practice: in the early days of the U-S Navy, presidents including John Adams issued letters of marque, authorizing private merchant ships to attack enemy vessels when the government lacked sufficient naval forces. The incoming chief appears opposed to importing that model into space.

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