The 11 year cycle of sunspots modulates the frequency of solar storms, the radiative output of the Sun and the solar wind thereby forcing the heliospheric environment and planetary atmospheres. Advance knowledge of solar cycle induced changes in the space environment is essential for planning for and protecting technological assets in space. A first principle based approach to gaining this knowledge requires an understanding of the solar magnetic cycle to extent that accurate predictions are possible. This session will focus on the physics of solar cycle forecasting and development of prediction models, impacts of decadal scale forcing of space and planetary environments and will critically assess future needs for transitioning from research to operational solar cycle forecasting.