I don't imagine this will end up a new mil branch. Putting this under USAF makes most sense as they are already operating in space, eg X-37 and ICBMs. Of course, all branches "use" space, what with GPS and SATCOM and intelligence. But USAF is the only one (that I know of) with missions operating/planned in space. I can see USAF funding NASA for some of the exploratory/development/testing phases and then being in charge of the military procurement, tactical & strategic mission execution, etc.
We do a lot in space currently, but I think it's good we recognize (and let the world know we recognize) space as a viable front line. The Chinese showed many years ago their ability to attack satellites. Not only is that directly a threat to the satellites themselves, but the debris can limit where you can operate for decades to follow. Just as we have relied on our air superiority for the last few decades, we need to ensure space superiority. Real "shock and awe" would be warfighters suddenly loosing beyond-line-of-sight coms and GPS, etc.
-rvb
We do a lot in space currently, but I think it's good we recognize (and let the world know we recognize) space as a viable front line. The Chinese showed many years ago their ability to attack satellites. Not only is that directly a threat to the satellites themselves, but the debris can limit where you can operate for decades to follow. Just as we have relied on our air superiority for the last few decades, we need to ensure space superiority. Real "shock and awe" would be warfighters suddenly loosing beyond-line-of-sight coms and GPS, etc.
-rvb