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US Space Force Confronts Budgetary Constraints Amidst Rising Domain Importance
WASHINGTON — The United States Space Force is facing reduced funding despite the Pentagon’s recognition of the escalating significance of space in contemporary military operations, according to the service’s highest-ranking officer on March 26.
Gen. Chance Saltzman, Chief of Space Operations, stated at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, “We are literally experiencing resource reduction within the Space Force.” This marks his first appearance at the think tank following a controversy over a white paper that questioned the service’s strategic approach.
Budget Reduction Concerns
Saltzman’s remarks follow Congress’s approval of a full-year continuing resolution (CR) for fiscal year 2025, which allocates $28.7 billion to the Space Force. This figure is $800 million less than the requested amount and $300 million below the 2024 budget.
“The year-long CR presents challenges,” Saltzman acknowledged, while also noting that Congress had provided some adaptability regarding “reprogramming and new project initiations, aspects that typically impede us during a continuing resolution period.”
He cautioned that in real-dollar terms, the Space Force is on a declining trajectory. “Even without considering inflationary adjustments, we are still experiencing a decrease in real funding, which is definitely a worry,” he expressed.
Maintaining Space Superiority in a Competitive Environment
“My concern is our ability to maintain pace, particularly in the manner we desire,” he stated, referencing U.S. endeavors to ensure dominance in space as China and Russia persist in developing and deploying anti-satellite weapons.
U.S. officials have cautioned about China’s rapid expansion of its space-based military capabilities, including the deployment of advanced surveillance satellites, development of anti-satellite missiles, and investments in electronic warfare systems capable of disrupting U.S. satellite communications and missile warning infrastructure. The Pentagon has identified space as a contested domain, emphasizing the necessity for robust satellite constellations and enhanced defensive strategies.
Established in December 2019 as the newest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, the Space Force is responsible for organizing, training, and equipping space forces to safeguard U.S. and allied interests in space.
Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Realignment
Anticipating Future Budget Adjustments
Looking ahead, the Space Force, alongside other military branches, is preparing for a broader budget realignment for fiscal year 2026. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has mandated an 8% internal reallocation across the Department of Defense (DoD), requiring each branch to identify potential reductions and areas for reinvestment.
While recognizing the necessity for realignment under a new administration, Saltzman conveyed optimism that the Space Force might avoid significant reductions. He highlighted the Pentagon’s increasing recognition of space as a crucial warfighting domain, a perspective recently reinforced by Hegseth in discussions with Space Force leadership.
Secretary Hegseth’s Perspective on Space Domain
“There’s no learning curve required with him,” Saltzman remarked about Hegseth. “I don’t need to explain the situation. He fully comprehends what considerations are necessary for us.” Saltzman indicated that Hegseth characterized space as the most vital domain in contemporary warfare.
Hopes for Sustained Funding
With the 2026 budget allocations still under evaluation, Saltzman remains hopeful that the Space Force will sustain its current funding levels. “We believe maintaining our existing resources is essential,” he concluded.