ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) -- The U.S. Space Force released its Principles for Space Access Resourcing Decisions Annex to the Commercial Space Strategy, July 16.
The annex details how the service will consider and prioritize commercial space sector requests for government resources, as well as government investment decisions.
The annex features nine principles, rooted in law, that will guide the Assured Access to Space Enterprise’s decision-making on a variety of resourcing decisions including acquisition strategies, investment priorities and property allocation.
“Our access to space is foundational to our national security and our way of life,” said Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Strategy, Plans, Programs and Requirements Lt. Gen. Shawn N. Bratton. “These principles reflect our understanding that a strong commercial space industry is a force multiplier for the U.S. Space Force. We are committed to working alongside our industry and allied partners to ensure safe, reliable and resilient access to space for decades to come.”
The annex signals an acknowledgment of the evolution of the space access landscape from the 1950s, in which the government was the primary customer, to today where commercial space activities account for the preponderance of launch manifest activities.
“For decades, our partnership with the commercial space sector has been instrumental in securing America's access to space,” said Lt. Gen. Philip A. Garrant, commander of Space Systems Command. “We are committed to making strategic decisions that ensure our national security needs are met, while also fostering a robust and competitive commercial space industry. The strength and innovation of the commercial sector is ultimately a force multiplier for our national security.”