Transforming Space Acquisition: The Space Force’s Strategic Shift

Overview of Defense Procurement Reforms

As the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) embarks on a transformative journey to revamp its procurement processes, the Space Force is at the forefront of this initiative. The service has begun emphasizing an operations-centric approach to acquisitions, aligning closely with commercial technological advancements to streamline capability delivery.

Chief of Space Operations, General Chance Saltzman, articulated the imperative for change during the recent Air, Space and Cyber conference in National Harbor, Maryland. “Across the government, there’s an undeniable demand for reform,” he noted, emphasizing the enthusiasm from industry leaders eager to engage in this collaborative transformation. Saltzman framed this moment as a generational opportunity, highlighting a convergence of political will and operational necessity that could redefine U.S. space capabilities.

Defense Leadership and Procurement Innovations

The Pentagon’s leadership, under Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, has initiated sweeping reforms aimed at overhauling procurement practices. Notable changes include:

• Utilization of Innovative Procurement Authorities: Facilitating quicker acquisition pathways.
• Dissolution of the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS): A controversial bureaucratic process that hampered agility.

Both legislative chambers are also advocating for acquisition reform in the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act. Proposed changes aim to simplify entry for commercial technologies and alleviate regulatory burdens, paving the way for more efficient procurement processes.

Operational Readiness through Integrated Structures

In a bid to enhance operational readiness, the Space Force has instituted new organizational frameworks for its field commands that strengthen the collaboration between operations and acquisition teams.

Key developments include:

• Integrated Mission Deltas (IMDs): Introduced in 2023, these units consolidate resources, personnel, and training for specific mission areas under a single command, enhancing mission execution efficiency.

• Fielding of New Technologies: Traditionally cautious in system development, the Space Force has pivoted to deploying capabilities earlier for real-world testing. This proactive stance enables commanders to take ownership of operational challenges while possessing the requisite tools and authorities for rapid problem-solving.

A recent success story involves the Deep-space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) system, which has been delivered ahead of the typical schedule, allowing for immediate operational contributions to space domain awareness.

Streamlining Acquisition Processes

To further optimize acquisition, the Space Force initiated a restructuring that addresses past inefficiencies, particularly in transitioning from development to operational phases. By aligning IMDs with System Deltas (SYDs) under the Space Systems Command (SSC), the synergy between operators and acquisition professionals has improved significantly. This pairing is designed to:

• Enhance Feedback Mechanisms: Fostering an iterative development process that responds to operators’ needs with agility.
• Accelerate Capability Delivery: Making timely adjustments based on front-line experiences and priorities.

Lt. General Philip Garrant, commander of SSC, highlighted that the streamlined structures are essential to address workforce reductions and sustainment challenges exacerbated by earlier budget cuts.

Addressing Workforce Constraints

The Space Force has faced notable reductions in its acquisition workforce, stemming from various budgetary constraints. As it endeavors to rebuild, a careful balance must be struck between hiring experienced professionals and nurturing the next generation of contracting specialists.

Garrant emphasized the importance of maintaining a lean but effective workforce—providing autonomy in decision-making while ensuring that personnel are adequately trained to navigate the evolving procurement landscape.

Commercial Technology Adoption

A crucial aspect of the Space Force’s procurement strategy involves a renewed focus on commercial technology solutions. Following directives from defense leadership, the service conducted a comprehensive review of existing acquisition programs to assess potential shifts toward commercial acquisitions.

Outcomes of this effort include:

• Adaptation of Existing Programs: For instance, the follow-on to the Geosynchronous Space Situational Awareness Program (GSSAP), known as RG-XX, will leverage commercially available space vehicles and payloads to enhance flexibility and reduce procurement timelines.

• Evaluative Framework for Transition: While some programs effectively transitioned to commercial solutions, others faced too great a risk to operational readiness.

Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy noted the necessity of assessing both operational suitability and the feasibility of integrating commercial technologies for mission-critical requirements.

Conclusion

The Space Force is navigating a pivotal transition aimed at redefining its acquisition landscape. Through strategic reorganization, collaborative frameworks, and a zealous push for commercial integration, the service is positioning itself to enhance operational capabilities in an increasingly complex strategic environment. This foundation not only prepares the Space Force to address immediate challenges but also sets the stage for future innovations in aerospace and defense.