Space Force sets sights on major overhaul of how it buys capabilities

A Falcon 9 rocket carrying the Northrop Grumman’s CRS NG-23 mission successfully launches from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, on Sept. 14, 2025. (U.S. Space Force photo by Gwendolyn Kurzen)

By Mikayla Easley • Oct 09, 2025

As the Defense Department continues pushing for major procurement reforms, the Space Force is doing its part to evolve how it develops and delivers new capabilities by focusing on operations-focused acquisitions and commercial technology.

“Nearly every corner of the government is clamoring for change from the highest levels on down. Likewise, I hear from industry leaders that they’re excited to partner in accelerating these changes,” Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman said during AFA’s Air, Space and Cyber conference. “We find ourselves in a generational moment. We have the drive, the political will and the necessity to make lasting changes in how we field combat-credible space capabilities.”

Since taking office, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and other leaders at the Pentagon have introduced sweeping initiatives to overhaul and streamline acquisition — from directing use of innovative procurement authorities to terminating the controversial Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS) process.