U.S. Space Force leaders have outlined a significant shift in training and readiness strategies, emphasizing the need for combat-ready Guardians who can operate effectively in an increasingly contested space domain. The new approach, detailed at the Air, Space & Cyber Conference, focuses on multi-domain skills and closer industry collaboration to maintain space superiority.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. Space Force is redesigning its training programs to prepare Guardians for a contested space environment.
- New officer training integrates space, cyber, intelligence, and acquisitions to enhance operational speed and adaptability.
- Leaders from Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM) stressed the importance of realistic training against potential adversaries.
- The Space Force is seeking streamlined acquisition processes and stronger partnerships with industry to accelerate capability delivery.
A New Approach to Guardian Readiness
During the Air and Space Forces Association’s annual conference in National Harbor, Maryland, senior Space Force officials highlighted a fundamental change in how personnel, known as Guardians, are prepared for their roles. The event, which took place from September 22-24, served as a platform to discuss the future of air and space power.
A central theme was the evolution of space from a passive environment to a dynamic and contested warfighting domain. This shift requires a new generation of operators equipped with a broader skillset than ever before.
Integrating Multiple Domains into Training
Maj. Gen. James E. Smith, the commander of Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM), spoke on a panel titled "Achieving Space Superiority." He explained that modern space operations, characterized by resilient architectures and large satellite constellations, demand a different way of thinking.
"For example, resilient architectures and proliferated constellations require our Guardians to think differently than we ever have in the past," Maj. Gen. Smith stated. "That’s why we redesigned our Officer Training Course."
The updated curriculum moves beyond single-specialty training. Instead of producing an officer focused solely on space operations, cyber, or intelligence, the new model creates a more versatile Guardian. "Our Guardian [officers] are trained in space, cyber, intel and acquisitions so that they can move at the speed that we’re going to have to move in this domain given the threats we are going to face," Smith added.
What is STARCOM?
Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM), headquartered at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida, is the U.S. Space Force command responsible for the readiness of its personnel. Its mission includes training, education, testing, and wargaming to develop Guardians who can effectively operate and defend U.S. interests in space.
Ensuring Combat Credibility in Space
The discussions at the conference underscored the urgency of preparing for potential conflict. Lt. Gen. David N. Miller, Jr., commander of Space Operations Command, and Lt. Gen. Douglas A. Schiess, commander of U.S. Space Forces-Space, joined Maj. Gen. Smith on the panel. They collectively emphasized that training must be realistic and prepare Guardians to act decisively against real-world threats.
Maj. Gen. Smith articulated STARCOM's primary goal. "The character of war is changing fast and Guardians must be ready to fight – not just in space, but across space, cyber and intel," he said. This multi-domain readiness is seen as a key component of deterrence.
STARCOM's Mission Focus
STARCOM's mission is to prepare every Guardian through a comprehensive system that includes:
- Advanced Training and Education
- System and Operational Testing
- Realistic Wargaming Scenarios
- Development of Ranges and Aggressor Forces
The ultimate objective is to field a force that is undeniably prepared. "For STARCOM it’s about ensuring every Guardian and every system we deliver is combat credible," Smith concluded. "Because at the end of the day, our job is to ensure we have the capabilities and the people that can deter a war – and if called upon, win."
Strengthening Industry Partnerships for Faster Innovation
Beyond personnel training, another critical topic was the need to accelerate the delivery of new technology and capabilities to the warfighter. In a separate panel discussion, Brig. Gen. Matthew S. Cantore, STARCOM’s deputy commander, explored how to improve collaboration with the private sector.
The panel, titled "Delivering Training Capabilities for Space Superiority," brought together industry leaders who called for clearer and more efficient acquisition processes. The goal is to remove barriers that prevent innovative companies, particularly smaller ones, from contributing to national security space efforts.
The Urgency of Modernization
Brig. Gen. Cantore emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the military and industry. "Industry plays a critical role, we need their capability," he stated. "This partnership is essential to ensure we get our requirements known and understood but then delivered to our Guardians to prepare."
Panelists agreed that time is a critical factor. The pace of technological change and the emergence of new threats mean that the Space Force cannot afford long development and procurement cycles. Streamlining how the service works with manufacturing partners is essential to providing Guardians with the advanced training tools and operational equipment they need.
Cantore warned that the stakes are high. "The fight for the future is upon us," he said. "We know that the next major conflict is going to require space superiority... we need to be ready."