Space Systems Command
Space Systems Command (SSC) is a future field command of the United States Space Force. It will be responsible for developing, acquiring, and fielding space capabilities, as well as launch, developmental testing, on-orbit checkout, and sustainment and maintenance of space systems. Space Systems Command also has oversight of all Space Force science and technology activities.[1]
Space Systems Command | |
---|---|
Country | |
Branch | |
Type | Field command |
Role | Research and development Space launch |
Headquarters | Unknown |
History
Announced as part of the U.S. Space Force's structure on 30 June 2020, Space Systems Command is intended to centralize military space research, development, acquisitions, and launch activities in a single command. The SSC intendeds to bring Army and Navy space acquisition activities under it as well.[2]
The concept has been widely praised by retired military space officers, as well as members of the space industry.[2]
Space Systems Command will be run by a lieutenant general. "Lt. Gen. John “JT” Thompson, the commander of the Space and Missile Systems Center, told SpaceNews that his organization will become the initial foundation of Space Systems Command. “This is truly a work in progress..”[2]
Future structure
Space Systems Command is intended to unify all elements of space research, development, and acquisition, with the Space and Missile Systems Center as the core. Organizations intended to be unified under SSC are[2]:
- Space and Missile Systems Center
- Commercial Satellite Communications Office, Washington, D.C.
- Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicle Directorate
- Space Development Agency - may be assigned, discussions under way
- Space Rapid Capabilities Office - may be assigned, discussions under way
- 30th Space Wing
- 45th Space Wing
Discussions are underway on transferring Army and Navy space acquisition elements, including the space acquisition elements of Army Space and Missile Defense Command and the Navy's satellite communications office to SSC. However, "[t]his remains a long shot, however, as neither service has signaled it is prepared to turn over any assets."[2]
See also
References
- "USSF field command structure reduces command layers, focuses on space warfighter needs". United States Space Force.
- "U.S. Space Force creates acquisition command to build culture of innovation". SpaceNews. 18 July 2020.