Advancing space superiority through international cooperative agreements Published June 12, 2026 By Angela Lindenmuth, Deputy Director, International Affairs Space Systems Command EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Space superiority is no longer achieved in isolation. In an era defined by contested domains, rapid technological change, and shared security challenges, Space Systems Command is strengthening its advantage by deepening cooperation with trusted international partners. Space Systems Command’s International Affairs Capabilities Division is translating strategic partnerships into operational capabilities through robust international cooperative armaments and agreements. Today, the division executes nearly 40 international agreements, representing more than $6 billion in partner investments across more than 15 allied and partner nations. These agreements support a multitude of mission areas, including Satellite Communications, Space Domain Awareness, Positioning, Navigation and Timing, Research and Development, and Missile Warning/Missile Tracking. From an acquisition perspective, these international agreements provide several advantages that complement Foreign Military Sales. By collaborating early, the U.S. and its allies and partners can align requirements and system architectures while sharing the technical and financial risks of development. Furthermore, this approach ensures interoperability is built into the design phase, reducing downstream integration costs and coordinating lifecycle and sustainment planning for coalition operations. These attributes are particularly valuable for emerging missions and rapidly evolving threat environments, where flexibility and collaboration are essential. The momentum of these types of partnerships is expected to grow. Looking ahead, the division anticipates several new international agreements in development by the end of 2026, representing nearly $700 million in additional partner investment. Building a future coalition architecture goes beyond hardware and financial investment; it requires integrating people and sharing expertise. Key engagement programs driving this integration include the Defense Acquisition Funded Enterprise-Level Partnerships Space Program and the Multinational Personnel Exchange Program, which integrates more than 150 personnel integrated with Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, the Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program partners with Spain and Norway, while the Acquisition and Procurement Exchange Program links the U.S. directly with the U.K. As the space domain becomes increasingly contested, international agreements ensure coalition interoperability, accelerate capability delivery and strengthen deterrence. Through disciplined execution and enduring partnerships, the division continues to transform a shared vision into an operational advantage for the Space Force and its allies.