Defense Department Space Policy

SORT: 5160.32
DOCI: DODD 5160.32
DATE: 19700908
TITL: DODD 5160.32 Development of Space Systems September 8, 1970 DDR&E

Ref: (a) DoD Directive 5160. 32, March 6, 1961, subject as above (hereby
canceled)

I. PURPOSE

This Directive establishes policies and assigns responsibilities for
research, development, test, and engineering of satellites, anti-
satellites, space probes and supporting systems therefor, for all
components of the Department of Defense.

ll.  CANCELLATION

Reference (a) is hereby superseded and canceled.

Ill.  POLICY AND ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Functional responsibilities within OSD and the Military Departments for
acquiring major weapon systems will be applied to the development and
acquisition of space systems.

B. Existing assignment of responsibilities for on-going space systems are
not changed by this Directive.  The Air Force will have the responsibility
for development, production and deployment of space systems for warning
and surveillance of enemy nuclear delivery capabilities and all launch
vehicles, including launch and orbital support operations.  Military
Department proposals for space development programs will require specific
OSD approval based on DCP and DSARC policies.  DCP's for space
communications, navigation, unique surveillance (i. e., ocean or
battlefield), meteorology, defense/offense, mapping / charting / geodesy,
and major technology programs will designate the Military Department or
DoD agency responsible for execution of the program.

C. Exceptions to B above will be made only by the Secretary of Defense or
Deputy Secretary of Defense.

D. The Director of Defense Research and Engineering will monitor all space
technology activity to minimize system technical risk and cost, to prevent
unwarranted duplication, and to assure that a space program assigned to
one department meets the needs of other departments.  Other departments may
appoint program/project monitors to report progress to their departments
and perform liaison between their departments and the responsible
department.  DDR&E will continue to serve as a focal point for space
technology and space systems where the interests of more than one
department are involved.

IV. EFFECTIVE DATE AND IMPLEMENTATION

This Directive is effective upon publication.  Two(2) copies of
implementing instructions shall be forwarded to the Director of Defense
Research and Engineering within sixty (60) days.

Deputy Secretary of Defense

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