Preface This paper uses open source documents to determine the current state of play in space operations within the international community and to propose a viable strategy United States policymakers can use to protect U.S. vital interests. It does not attempt to prescribe specific actions, but rather to suggest in light of other alternatives, one that provides the greatest long term benefit. The purpose of this paper is to propose a means by which policymakers can best protect U.S. national interests in light of the increased international development of space. It does this by addressing two issues: why following a multilateral, diplomatic and legal approach to confronting international space development is the most beneficial strategy to protecting American national interests; why policymakers will use multilateral engagement to resolve continuous space development issues despite inclinations to act otherwise.