General Chance Saltzman, the Chief of Space Operations, told thousands of attendees at the Air, Space & Cyber Conference on September 23 that winning in the space domain depends on accelerating the development and delivery of capabilities. He emphasized that future advantages depend on force design, system procurement, and providing tools that space forces can use immediately.

Saltzman mentioned recent advances in Global Positioning System (GPS) accuracy, with a 40% improvement through rapid upgrades, new tactics, and field testing. He noted that the same system not only guides civilian navigation applications but also provides navigation for B-2 bombers and precision munitions.

He also mentioned that the Space Force has shortened the deployment time for new satellites. "In the past year, we launched two of the most advanced GPS satellites," he said. "Previously, this almost took two years... now it only takes three months."

Saltzman also highlighted the Space Development Agency's recent "first" launch mission, which was the first wave of deployment of more than 150 satellites. This distributed architecture will provide missile warning, tactical communications, and optical cross-link capabilities, while reducing its own vulnerability by denying an adversary's first-strike advantage.

But he warned not to delay deployments in pursuit of perfection. "An effective system does not need to be perfect to have operational credibility," he said. Instead, he urged to get systems up and running quickly, manage risks wisely, and continue upgrading after deployment.

He stated that the Space Force, which is nearly six years old, is in a critical period. "We have a once-in-a-century opportunity to fundamentally change and modernize the way we develop and deliver the space systems our nation needs," he told the audience.

Saltzman also emphasized the importance of deepening industry collaboration. The Space Force is moving from transactional cooperation to collaborative engagement, coordinating strategies and requirements through more direct communication. Initiatives such as online "front door" portals will allow companies to submit innovative ideas for evaluation by multiple Space Force commands and partner organizations.

Looking ahead, Saltzman said the Space Force is analyzing adversaries' actions, operational needs, and environmental changes to identify its target forces. This planning will clarify the systems, structures, and personnel needed over the next 15 years, providing clearer signals for industry and government resource allocation.

Finally, he praised the Space Force personnel as the driving force behind these efforts. "You are the heart and soul of our mission," he said. "Continuous learning and rapid improvement are key to staying ahead of our adversaries... I am very proud to see you doing this every day."

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7554309596337177130/

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