The Quad: Implications for Space

The rise of China and its expansionist policies have alarmed nations around the world. The free and democratic nations in the Indo-Pacific, namely U.S, Australia, India and Japan have loosely banded together and to push back against Chinese aggressiveness and excessive territorial claims. This article addresses the implications of banding of the Quad nations in relation to space. Australian alliance with the US will inform its behavior when it comes to Quad. Japanese interests are in building stronger partnerships with a view to building resilient space systems and contribute successfully to mission assurance. The main theme emerging from India is with regard to rules of the road for outer space activities. Space Situational Awareness and Maritime Domain Awareness are key areas of interest for all Quad members. With strong US leadership, the Quad could play a key role in the development of a rules-based order for outer space activities.