In face of the Soviet Union’s success with the Sputnik launch, President Eisenhower conducted an investigation into why the United States had lagged behind. Futrell responds comprehensively with the basis that interservice rivalry, and inadequacy of each branch to handle space technology development, had produced this outcome. Futrell then suggests that the Air Force may be the best suited for pursuing space based military technology. In his report, he gives an exhaustive history of the U.S. Air Force, and its attitudes towards developing certain technology. He lists certain benefits that the Air Force enjoys over other military branches, such as relative isolation from the media and affinity for advanced technology. Futrell’s suggestion for the USAF’s adoption of space military research has been adapted, and today, the USAF deals heavily in items like satellites, high-tech fighters, and futuristic military equipment.
The success of Sputnik created a sense of urgency in assigning specific tasks within the US military for winning the space race. Futrell gives a report on the history of the Air Force and suggests that they are best suited for the dealing with space military technology. In addition, he stresses the importance of the USAF in general, and the need for maintaining a strong investment in the air force.
“Air Force doctrine must represent the judgment of the highest level of authority, must comprehend national policies and technological advances, and must be generally compatible with the evaluated doctrines of the other Armed Services.” [p. 301]
This report was released to the Nautilus Institute under the US Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).