The United States Space Force (USSF) stands as the newest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, tasked with the critical mission of protecting national interests within the vast domain of space. Established in 2019, it safeguards satellites, deters space-based threats, and provides essential capabilities that support both military operations and daily life.
Who Are The United States Space Force
The Space Force is the newest independent branch of the United States Armed Forces. It was established on December 20th, 2019, becoming the first new military service branch since the formation of the Air Force in 1947.
Guardians, as USSF members are called, are a mix of military personnel transferred from other branches (primarily the Air Force) and new recruits.
The Space Force is led by:
The Chief of Space Operations (CSO): A four-star general, member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
The Secretary of the Air Force: Civilian leader overseeing both the Air Force and Space Force.
What The United States Space Force Do
Mission: The USSF is responsible for protecting U.S. interests in space, deterring aggression in the space domain, and providing vital space-based capabilities to the joint force and the nation.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop military space professionals
Acquire military space systems (satellites, launch vehicles, ground stations, etc.)
Mature the military doctrine of space power
Organize space forces to present to our Combatant Commands
Areas of Focus:
Satellite Operations: Controlling and maintaining military satellites for communication, navigation, missile warning, and more.
Space Domain Awareness: Monitoring and tracking objects and activity in space, vital for avoiding collisions and detecting threats.
Space Electronic Warfare: Protecting our space assets from jamming and other electronic attacks.
Launch and Range Operations: Managing launches of military and government payloads into space.
Where The United States Space Force Operate
Headquarters: The Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia.
Bases and Operations: Space Force Guardians are stationed at various locations around the globe, including:
Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado
Vandenberg Space Force Base, California
Buckley Space Force Base, Colorado
Patrick Space Force Base, Florida
Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida
Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado
International Partnerships: The Space Force collaborates closely with allies and partners on various space-related initiatives and missions.