Established in December 2019, the US Space Force (USSF) is the youngest branch of the United States military. Over its first five years, the Space Force has achieved numerous milestones, solidifying its role in the evolving space domain of defense. Created during a time of heightened global competition in space, the USSF has become a critical component of the nation’s strategy to maintain superiority in this new frontier.
From Support Element to Warfighting Service
Initially focused on providing communications, navigation, and other support to joint military operations, the Space Force has grown into a fully-fledged warfighting service. With an annual budget of approximately $30 billion—twice that of the Coast Guard but a fraction of the Air Force’s $215 billion—the USSF is tasked with defending US interests in space.
The Space Force’s primary mission revolves around “space control,” ensuring the US can contest and dominate the space domain if needed. This involves protecting critical satellites and infrastructure while preparing for potential conflicts that could involve targeting adversary assets in orbit.
Milestones and Expanding Capabilities
Since its inception, the Space Force has focused on strengthening its offensive and defensive capabilities. Top officials have become more vocal about classified technologies designed to neutralize Chinese and Russian satellites in a conflict scenario.
While no immediate timeline has been provided, there are growing calls for deploying “Guardians”—Space Force personnel—directly into space to defend US assets. Private-sector innovations may also play a key role, with companies like United Launch Alliance (ULA) proposing space-based interceptors and SpaceX suggesting potential military applications for its Starship, such as rapid global troop and cargo transport.
The Push for Growth
Representative Mike Rogers, instrumental in establishing the Space Force, has called for the branch to expand. While the USSF was designed as a lean and agile force, growing challenges from adversaries like China have necessitated a larger force.
“If we want a Space Force capable of meeting national expectations, it needs enough people and the right people to fulfill its mission,” Rogers said.
Efforts are underway to increase the force’s size and improve its operational capabilities. Congress has pledged its support to help the Space Force confront rising challenges and maintain its edge in the rapidly evolving space domain.
Global Collaboration and Allied Integration
While no ally matches the space capabilities of the United States, international cooperation is essential to achieving space superiority. The Space Force has prioritized integration with trusted allies such as Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, emphasizing “allied by design” systems to ensure compatibility and shared strategies.
Efforts include:
- Relaxing export barriers: In 2024, the US reduced restrictions on sharing space-related technologies with allies, streamlining collaboration on space priorities.
- The CSpO Forum: This ten-nation group, including Five Eyes members (US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand) and nations like France, Germany, and Japan, integrates allied space capabilities into unified strategies.
Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves noted that these changes reduce innovation barriers and strengthen international partnerships critical for maintaining leadership in space.
The Space Race with China
As the Space Force solidifies its role, China has emerged as its primary competitor. The People’s Liberation Army Aerospace Force, established in 2024, has rapidly advanced China’s space capabilities. Beijing is working toward ambitious goals, including sending astronauts to the Moon and establishing a rival lunar base by the end of the decade.
The Space Force remains vigilant, ensuring the US retains its dominance in space while preparing for potential challenges from Chinese and other adversarial forces.
Building Resiliency for the Future
The Space Force is adapting to an era where space is no longer just a support domain but a critical theater for defense. By enhancing partnerships, increasing its capabilities, and investing in advanced technologies, the USSF is shaping the future of space warfare.
As we look to the next five years, the US Space Force will continue to evolve, ensuring America’s dominance in the ultimate high ground: space.
FAQ:
1. What is the US Space Force (USSF)?
The US Space Force is the youngest branch of the United States military, established in December 2019. Its primary mission is to defend US interests in space, focusing on satellite protection, cybersecurity, and space warfare capabilities.
2. Why was the Space Force created?
The Space Force was created to address growing global competition in space and to ensure the United States maintains superiority in this critical domain. It aims to protect space assets, support joint military operations, and prepare for potential conflicts in space.
3. What is “space control,” and why is it important?
“Space control” refers to the ability to dominate the space domain, ensuring the protection of US assets and the ability to disrupt or neutralize adversary operations in space. It is essential for maintaining military and technological advantages in modern warfare.
4. How much is the Space Force’s annual budget?
The Space Force’s annual budget is approximately $30 billion, making it larger than the Coast Guard’s ($14 billion) but significantly smaller than the Air Force’s ($215 billion).
5. What are some key accomplishments of the Space Force in its first five years?
- Development of offensive and defensive space capabilities.
- Establishing “Guardians” as the official designation for Space Force personnel.
- Strengthening partnerships with allied nations for space-related initiatives.
- Supporting innovation through collaborations with private companies like SpaceX and United Launch Alliance (ULA).
6. What role do private companies play in the Space Force’s operations?
Private companies like SpaceX and ULA are critical partners in advancing military space technology. Examples include:
- SpaceX Starship: Proposed for rapid global troop and cargo transport.
- ULA’s Vulcan Centaur: Envisioned as an orbital interceptor for space defense.