The U.S. Space Force

The U.S. Air Force (USAF) branch of the Department of Defense also includes the Space Force (USSF). It was officially established as a separate military branch in December 2019. While it operates under the Department of the Air Force, it has distinct missions, priorities, and procurement processes (and has assets in North Dakota!)

Before pursuing work with the USSF, understand its priorities, such as:

• Space domain awareness
• Satellite communications and control
• Launch and range operations
• Cyber operations in space systems
• Resilient and secure space-based infrastructure

While some procurement is still managed by Air Force contracting offices, the Space Force is increasingly managing its own acquisitions. Key entities include:

• Space Systems Command (SSC) – the main acquisition arm for USSF, responsible for systems development and procurement.
• Space Operations Command (SpOC) – manages operations and may issue service and support contracts.
• Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM) – oversees training, doctrine, and wargaming.

Look for solicitations and points of contact within these commands.

Many Space Force acquisitions are driven by innovation:

• AFWERX/SpaceWERX – SpaceWERX is the innovation hub for USSF and part of AFWERX. It leverages:
• Orbital Prime, Tactically Responsive Space, and other challenge-based initiatives.
• Take your prototypes further, faster Space Enterprise Consortium

SSC Front Door – Space Starts Here! – SSC Front Door is committed to helping the USSF maintain our nation’s dominance in space. We exist to help early-stage start-ups and innovative commercial enterprises explore opportunities to collaborate with the United States Space Force (USSF) and further our common goal of bolstering national security.

Contact the SSC Small Business Office or your APEX Accelerator advisor for assistance.