Algeria's Space Power as a Mechanism to Strengthening Border Security: A Foresight Study amid Geopolitical and Technological Transformations

Abstract

In recent decades, space power has become a major indicator of state power. Outer space has moved beyond scientific exploration and has become a strategic domain where security, military, economic, and technological interests intersect. This shift has altered the nature of national security. Satellites, remote-sensing systems, and space communications now play a central role in border protection, counterterrorism, military monitoring, disaster management, and intelligence.

Since launching its national space program, Algeria has sought to expand its space capabilities. It established the Algerian Space Agency and launched satellites for remote sensing, communications, and scientific research. These efforts strengthen national decision-making autonomy and support security and development needs.

This study examines the current state of Algerian space power and explores its future amid geopolitical and technological change. It focuses on its role in strengthening border security. The study combines descriptive-analytical and foresight approaches. It analyzes the legal and institutional framework of Algeria's space program, assesses current capabilities, and develops future scenarios for national space capacity.

The study concludes that investment in space power is no longer only a technological choice. It is a strategic requirement for stronger national security. This requires an industrial base, qualified human resources, deeper international cooperation, and an integrated national space strategy linking security, defense, development, and scientific research.