New „Systems Deltas” Created
The Space Force’s primary acquisition command, Space Systems Command (SSC), has established two new subordinate organizations, known as „Systems Deltas (SYDs),” to oversee development programs. The first will focus on missile warning and tracking, while the second will concentrate on space-based sensing and targeting.
Streamlining Acquisition and Operations
This move is part of a broader effort by SSC to reorganize acquisition programs along mission area lines, aligning with the structure of the Space Force’s main operational arm, Space Operations Command (SpOC).
Unity of Effort
„Through unity of effort, the Space Force’s System Delta framework allows us to streamline the work between acquisitions and operations accomplished through intimate collaboration with our Mission Delta counterparts across the field commands,” said SSC Commander Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant.
Mission-Focused Organization
The new deltas will consolidate program offices that design, develop, and deliver mission systems under a force design structure for acquisitions. Both SYDs will report to the Space Force Program Executive Officer for Space Sensing, currently held by Col. Robert Davis.
SYD 84: Space-Based Missile Warning and Tracking
SYD 84 will be responsible for Space-Based Missile Warning and Tracking, addressing emerging threats such as hypersonic weapons. This delta is directly linked to its sister SpOC Mission Delta 4. Col. Stevie Medeiros assumed command of SYD 84 on July 10.
Next-Gen OPIR and MWT Programs
SSC is currently developing the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) satellite constellation to replace the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) in geosynchronous Earth orbit. It is also in the early stages of a new program to design and build a missile tracking constellation in medium Earth orbit, optimized for tracking hypersonic missiles under the Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking (MWT) Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) program.
SYD 810: Space-Based Sensing and Targeting
SYD 810 will be responsible for the Space-Based Sensing and Targeting (SBST) mission area, including the Environmental Monitoring and Tactical Sensing portfolio.
Environmental Monitoring and Tactical Sensing
This SYD provides global terrestrial cloud forecasting and theater weather imagery data for timely mission operations, planning, and execution. It also delivers critical and actionable environmental surveillance to military operations. SYD 810 is directly linked to its sister SpOC Mission Delta 2, as well as Space Force Component Commands in multiple theaters. Col. Dane Bannach was assigned as SYD 810 commander on July 10.
GMTI and AMTI Efforts
SSC is responsible for the Space Force’s joint program with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) to develop Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI) satellites, which track and provide targeting vectors for enemy vehicles and ships, largely replacing the Air Force’s aging E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft. The command is also exploring the development of space-based Air Moving Target Indicator (AMTI) sensors to further replace the E-3 Sentry aircraft.
