The United States Space Force, the newest branch of the U.S. military, is facing a “new era” of threats beyond Earth (CNBC). In order to maintain U.S. superiority in space, complacency must be avoided (SpaceNews). Chief of Space Operations, Gen. Chance Saltzman, praised the United States’ proud and trailblazing history in space, but warns against any form of complacency (Military.com). In response to a lapse in space intelligence, the Space Force has created three intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance squadrons (Military.com).
To address threats to US spacecraft and satellites, the Space Force is turning to commercial data to monitor satellites and debris (SpaceNews). This marks a new effort to evaluate and use commercial capabilities, though these efforts have been limited in the past (SpaceNews).
The Space Force is also making progress in terms of its uniforms, with new PT gear and service dress items being developed (Air Force Magazine). Additionally, the Space Force is continuing to progress its missions through awarding task orders to companies such as Astra Space (Orlando Sentinel).
Despite advancements in uniform and mission progress, the head of the country’s military Space Force warns that threats to US spacecraft and satellites are growing substantially (Al Arabiya). To combat these growing military threats in space, the Space Force, in conjunction with the Defense Information Systems Agency, has awarded a $27.54 million contract to SES Space & Defense (SpaceRef).
While some false rumors about the Space Force exist, such as the recent claim that a Space Force Commander was arrested for treason (Snopes), the Space Force continues to focus their efforts on addressing the new wave of challenges that face the US military in space (ExecutiveBiz).
