Overview and Mission of the U.S. Space Force

The U.S. Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, established by Congress via the fiscal year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. It was created to address the growing importance of space in national security and military operations. The Space Force operates under the Department of the Air Force, with the Secretary of the Air Force having overall responsibility for its operations.
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Mission and Responsibilities

The primary mission of the Space Force is to protect U.S. interests in space and ensure the freedom of operation in the space domain. This includes a variety of critical functions:
  1. Space Operations: Conducting space missions and operations to maintain and enhance U.S. capabilities in space.
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  2. Cybersecurity: Protecting space-based systems from cyber threats.
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  3. Satellite Maintenance: Ensuring the proper functioning and maintenance of satellites that are vital for communication, navigation, and surveillance.
  4. Intelligence and Surveillance: Gathering intelligence and maintaining surveillance to enhance situational awareness in space.
  5. Missile Warning: Providing early warning of missile launches to protect the U.S. and its allies.
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  6. Electronic Warfare: Engaging in electronic warfare to disrupt adversarial communications and systems.
  7. Space Domain Awareness: Monitoring and understanding the space environment to anticipate and counter threats.

Organizational Structure

The Space Force is organized under the Department of the Air Force, with the Secretary of the Air Force overseeing its operations. This structure allows for the integration of military and civilian assets to maintain a competitive edge in space capabilities.
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Recent Developments

  • Leadership Changes: Former Space Force commander Matthew Lohmeier has been nominated as the next Undersecretary of the Air Force. Lohmeier, known for his critical views on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in the military, aims to end what he describes as "woke" policies that he believes have negatively impacted military readiness.
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  • Public Appearances: The Space Force will make its first public appearance by marching in President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, 2025.

Historical Context

The Space Force was officially established on December 20, 2019, and has since been working to develop and acquire advanced space systems to enhance U.S. capabilities in space. It brings together both military and civilian expertise to maintain a strategic advantage in space operations.
In summary, the U.S. Space Force is a critical component of the U.S. military, focusing on protecting and enhancing U.S. space capabilities through a range of operations, cybersecurity measures, and strategic planning.