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.
Douglas Schiess joined the Air Force in 1992 after graduating from the University of California, Los Angeles Reserve Officers' Training Corps program.
Before becoming a taikonaut, Zhang Lu served in the People’s Liberation Army Air Force and reached the rank of Senior Colonel.
As deputy director of Kennedy Space Center, Janet Petro led cross-agency initiatives with the Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Air Force to streamline government processes for commercial space operations.
The onboard AI on Mission Drishti reduces the time required to convert raw imagery into actionable insights for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The Space Launch Delta 45 Civil Engineer Squadron and the Air Force Civil Engineer Center led the Skid Strip renovation.
The Department of the Air Force strategy calls for identifying competitive financial incentives for AI talent.
The U.S. Space Force falls under the organizational umbrella of the Department of the Air Force.
The Department of the Air Force strategy directs the service to streamline hiring and accessions processes for essential AI positions.
The Department of the Air Force strategy was developed in accordance with the Department of Defense’s AI Strategy directive.
Space Systems Command administers the Link-182 contract and is headquartered at Los Angeles Air Force Base, California.
Joshua Kutryk is a distinguished graduate of the United States Air Force Test Pilot School in Edwards, California.
The Space Safari Office at Space Systems Command is headquartered at Los Angeles Air Force Base in El Segundo, California.
Erich Hernandez-Baquero is a retired Air Force colonel.
President Donald Trump nominated Raytheon Vice President Erich Hernandez-Baquero to serve as the assistant secretary of the Air Force for space acquisition and integration.
Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy held the assistant secretary of the Air Force for space acquisition and integration position in an acting capacity until February 2026.
Thomas Ainsworth currently holds the assistant secretary of the Air Force for space acquisition and integration position in an acting capacity.
Jacob Simmons, John Bentivegna, and Jamie Marshall served together in the same crew at Buckley Air National Guard Base in Colorado in 1998.
If confirmed, Erich Hernandez-Baquero would replace Frank Calvelli as assistant secretary of the Air Force for space acquisition and integration.
The fiscal year 2027 Air Force budget includes $3.9 billion for 15 new KC-46A aerial refuelers.
If approved, the combined Air Force and Space Force budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1 would increase by $92.5 billion from the current fiscal year.