The Space Force is developing new acquisition portfolios focused on space control and orbital warfare capabilities, according to Tom Ainsworth, Air Force space acquisition officer. The service is pursuing cislunar operations integration and plans to collaborate closely with NASA and the Air Force Research Laboratory on emerging technologies.
The cislunar focus represents a significant expansion of Space Force operations beyond traditional Earth orbit missions. This capability development positions the U.S. to project power and maintain space domain awareness in the region between Earth and the Moon, enhancing strategic deterrence against potential adversaries.
The timing coincides with China's National People's Congress meetings, where Beijing outlined its economic and political priorities through 2030 in its 15th Five-Year Plan. These developments occur as both nations compete for space dominance and technological superiority in critical domains.
Specific budget allocations and contract values for the cislunar programs were not disclosed. The Space Force acquisition strategy involves leveraging existing partnerships with NASA and Air Force Research Laboratory to accelerate technology development timelines.
The orbital warfare portfolio signals the Space Force's recognition that future conflicts may extend beyond terrestrial boundaries into space domains, requiring new capabilities for space control and defense operations.