The U.S. Air Force (USAF) plays a significant role in the space industry, historically serving as the Department of Defense's executive agent for space, and developing early military space programs and launch vehicles. Although the U.S. Space Force was established as an independent branch in 2019, the Air Force continues to contribute to space operations, including training personnel, research and development, and maintaining partnerships. The USAF's space-related activities encompass satellite operations, missile warning, communication support, and collaboration with allies to ensure regional stability. Key partners include the U.S. Space Force, other branches of the military, and international allies.
All verified mentions of this organization in source documents.
The Secretary of the Air Force Office of Special Projects managed the GAMBIT photo-reconnaissance satellites.
The Secretary of the Air Force Office of Special Projects managed the high-altitude JUMPSEAT signals intelligence program in the 1970s.
Aireon serves over half of the world’s air navigation service providers.
Iridium will pay $366.7 million to buy the remaining 61% stake in Aireon from five air navigation service providers.
Air navigation service providers covering more than 50% of global airspace rely on Aireon data.
Lunar Outpost secured a US$2.5 million U.S. Air Force R&D contract.
The Department of the Air Force has placed Tranche 3 on hold while requirements migrate toward the Space Data Network supporting Golden Dome.
On May 7, 2026, the U.S. Air Force selected L3Harris Technologies to develop key features of the secure digital infrastructure for the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS).
L3Harris Technologies' ABMS work is intended to help the Air Force share data gathered by disparate space systems across its broader battlefield management network.
Orlando Sanchez Jr. previously served as an Air Force officer and flew F-22 fighter jets.
Overview Energy’s study will examine remote bases such as Eielson Air Force Base near Fairbanks, Alaska, where fuel delivery is expensive, difficult, and time consuming.
From the Space Operations Center, the Swedish Air Force will build a space situational picture and control Sweden's future satellite constellation.
Overview Energy won its first Air Force contract to study using solar power from space to power remote military installations.
Merek Chertkow developed qualification strategies at SpaceX and Blue Origin that were adopted across multiple flight programs and approved by NASA, the U.S. Air Force, and The Aerospace Corporation.
Space Systems Command is based at Los Angeles Air Force Base in California.
Overview Energy’s contract with the Air Force is for an undisclosed amount.
Jim Bridenstine served in the Navy Reserve and the Oklahoma Air National Guard after leaving active duty.
The Integrated Radar Operations Center of the 20th Space Surveillance Squadron conducts DARC early-use activities at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida.
Douglas A. Schiess entered the Air Force in 1992 as a Distinguished Graduate of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Troy Meink is the Secretary of the Air Force.