[–] littul_kitton 0 points 1 point 1 point (+1|-0) ago
Satellite orbits are predictable months in advance. That gives a lot of opportunity to schedule clandestine military operations, like aircraft tests at Groom Lake (Area 51). The Open Skies Treaty allows surveillance aircraft to fly anywhere on short notice, which makes it hard to hide things like tests, equipment build-up, black project construction, etc. This is intended to improve strategic stability for all parties. It also gives everybody practical experience in operating in each other's territory, which should reduce misinterpretations during hostilities.