US Space Forces Central Plans Fivefold Growth Over Three Years

U.S. Space Forces Central, the U.S. Space Force component operating under U.S. Central Command known as "SPACECENT," expects to grow to about five times its current size within three years, starting from around 30 personnel split between Shaw Air Force Base and Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

Brig. Gen. Todd Benson said the expansion covers needs including planning staff, intelligence support, terrestrial jamming, and orbital systems, elements serving the force's mission in its area of responsibility.

This growth comes as the force supports operations against Iran, according to the report, tying organizational expansion to operational requirements in the Middle East.

Benson stated that space "will forever be a part of every military operation going forward," adding "there's no going back from that." He noted that recent operations have reinforced the importance of space capabilities and changed how the joint force thinks about space.

What Do These Terms Mean?

U.S. Space Forces Central (SPACECENT): A U.S. Space Force component operating within U.S. Central Command, responsible for organizing space missions and supporting military operations in its area of responsibility.

Terrestrial Jamming: Devices that disrupt or jam satellite and wireless communication signals to prevent an adversary from using them.

Orbital Systems: Satellites and devices operating in orbit around Earth for communication, reconnaissance, and navigation purposes.