Business
Space Force Unworried by Predictions of Commercial-Launch Consolidation
There’s “certainly enough capacity,” the service’s No. 2. officer said—though “more is always better.”
Threats
To Escape Bullies, Military ‘Forced to Move’ Families with LGBTQ+ Kids
Harassment of children is "detracting from our readiness," says top Air Force manpower official, "because their school will do nothing when their LGBT kid is being bullied."
Policy
Space Force Hopes to Recoup Costs of Commercial Launches
A law that limits launch fees is under reconsideration as more private companies use government facilities to send rockets skyward.
Business
Space Force Woos New Launch Bidders—But Startups Aren’t Quite Ready
Established giants are likely to win the first contracts awarded under a novel “two-lane” approach.
Business
The Pentagon Is Increasingly Relying on Billionaires’ Rockets. And It’s OK with That.
Space Force leaders say carefully written contracts can prevent things like SpaceX’s about-face on Ukrainian satcomms.
Ideas
Space Symposium Conference Wire 3: Threat Warnings
Day 3 of the conference brought warnings about China and Russia—and of a "subtle complacency" at home.
Policy
Tighten Access to Classified Info, Air Force Secretary Says
As the Pentagon responds to a classified document leak, officials should focus on enforcing “need to know,” according to Frank Kendall.
Threats
Allies Want Space Defenses Too, US Official Says
As friendly countries buy and develop their own satellites, they’re increasingly worried about protecting them, an Air Force leader said.
Ideas
Space Symposium Conference Wire 2: New Capabilities, Threats
Day 2 of the Space Symposium brings news of advances at home and abroad.
Business
Space Symposium Conference Wire 1: All About Launches
The country's biggest space-focused conference gets underway in a year that's "all about launches."
Science & Tech
3 Years or Less: Space Force’s 'Simple Formula' for Quicker Launches
“Our competitors seem to have figured out speed. It’s time we do the same,” said the assistant Air Force secretary for space acquisitions and integration.
Threats
Satellite Ground Stations Are Vulnerable, US Warns
The Space Development Agency is beefing up satellite constellations—but keeping an eye on terrestrial attacks.
Threats
Space Force Is Building a Virtual Training Ground for Space Conflict
In an interview, chief of space operations notes China’s efforts to jam and intercept orbiting satellites.
Policy
Air Force Wishlist: Accelerate E-7 Production, Extend F-15EX Range, Buy New Radars for F-16s
The service’s “unfunded priorities” list also includes $1.2 billion for 21 military construction projects.
Threats
Space Force to Spend $340 Million on New Training Infrastructure
The service’s budget proposal also includes $99 million in the next year for updated space launch ranges, and $1 billion more across the next five years.
Policy
The Pentagon’s 2024 Budget Proposal, In Short
The spending plan includes $315 billion to develop and buy new weapons.
Science & Tech
Pentagon Looking to Make Sure SpaceX Doesn’t Abandon Them in War
Spooked by the company’s new limits in Ukraine, military leaders are mulling new types of contracts.
Threats