US space forces (USSF) are actively promoting the initiative to expand the staff and transform the personnel training system, to match the pace of the "space race" with China and Russia.
Key areas of inquiry:
Increase in numbers: The leadership of the Space Force insists on increasing the number of "guards" (Guardians), since the current composition (close 10 000 persons) is considered insufficient for round-the-clock monitoring of satellite groups and management of new defense systems.
Hybrid model (Space Force Reserve): IN 2026 implementation of the "single component" model continues, which allows to attract specialists from the civilian sector on a part-time basis without the need to create a separate Reserve or National Guard.
Advanced training (StarCom): Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM) introduces new combat simulations in space. The main emphasis is on dynamic operations (the ability to maneuver satellites under threat of attack) instead of being static in orbit.
Specialization in cyber security: A significant part of the new personnel is recruited specifically to protect ground stations and communication channels from cyber attacks, which Space Force considers the "number one" threat.
The reason for the pressure on Congress
General B. Chance Saltzman (B. Chance Saltzman) notes, that without qualified personnel even the most modern technologies (such as rapid deployment satellites) will be ineffective in real conflict conditions.
Source: https://spacenews.com