SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- As the newest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, the Space Force has quickly become a vital player in modern warfare by integrating its cutting-edge, space-based capabilities into joint operations alongside other military branches. This collaboration has proven critical for ensuring mission success across all domains.
U.S. Space Force Master Sgt. Albert Owens, Mission Delta 9 first sergeant, is a veteran of both ground- and space-based operations, having served 13 years in the Army before transitioning to the Space Force. Now in his third year as a Guardian, Owens reflects on the challenges and triumphs of integrating space capabilities into joint military operations, emphasizing the critical role the Space Force plays in modern warfare.
“Our ability to dominate in space empowers joint operations across all domains – land, sea, and air – ensuring that other military branches have access to the critical space-based information necessary for mission execution,” said Owens. “Some of our key areas of collaboration include intelligence sharing, coordinated planning for space operations, defending against space threats, and integrating space capabilities into joint warfighting strategies.”
This level of integration ensures that other branches have the tools and information they need for mission success, from precise navigation to real-time intelligence.
Despite its vital contributions, the Space Force faces challenges in joint environments, particularly in communicating its unique capabilities to other branches.
“Our operational tempo often differs from that of other branches, requiring intricate coordination,” Owens noted. The upcoming Space Force Generation force presentation model will enhance coordination and alignment between the Space Force and joint operations, addressing the intricate coordination required for joint operations.
Guardians must also bridge gaps in technical understanding to ensure the full potential of space-based assets is realized during joint missions.
Owens highlights the advantages of joint-focused environments, which bring together diverse expertise to create more informed decision-making processes.
“Working in joint environments is crucial for the success of the Space Force; by integrating space capabilities into joint planning and decision-making, we can unlock a more comprehensive understanding of the operational environment, leading to more informed decisions,” said Owens. “This will accelerate decision-making, allowing us to respond rapidly to changing circumstances.”
To prepare Guardians for joint missions, Owens highlighted the different professional development opportunities the Space Force offers.
“Guardians can attend joint exercises, Joint Force Leader Development, and professional development courses from the Army, Navy, Marines,” said Owens. “Additionally, I think reading up on the joint publications – specifically JP 3-14 Joint Space Operations, JP 5-0 Joint Planning, and the Backbone of the Armed Forces – will set Guardians up for success.”
The Space Force’s participation in the 2024 Cobra Gold exercise in Thailand, for example, marked a milestone in joint and multinational collaboration for the branch.
“I read about the U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific participating in the joint exercise. I believe this is the first time over 33 nations collaborated in the space, air, and land domains, setting a new standard for multinational space operations,” said Owens. “This exercise provided the opportunity for space integration and cooperation, preparing operators for the challenges of a contested space environment. Its success highlights the growing importance of space-based capabilities in modern warfare.”
Owens emphasized that intelligence sharing is crucial for joint-focused environments, particularly when it comes to space-related information.
“By leveraging space-based assets, our military improves decision-making, accelerates speed and agility, expands global reach and presence, and enhances the capabilities of our allies and partners,” said Owens. “This integration is crucial for the success of joint operations, allowing our military to operate more effectively, efficiently, and safely in a rapidly changing and increasingly complex operational environment.”
Owens acknowledges that the strength of a joint-focused approach lies in a unified collaboration amongst our nation's military leaders.
“By fostering a culture of cooperation, trust, and open communication, we can leverage the unique strengths and capabilities of each branch to achieve a common goal: defending our nation and securing victory in any warfighting domain,” said Owens. “Effective leadership and collaboration are the backbone of successful joint operations, enabling us to stay ahead of emerging threats, capitalize on opportunities, and, ultimately, fight and win for our nation.”
Owens’s journey to the Space Force was inspired by his brother, an Army officer, who stressed the strategic importance of space in future conflicts. “Moving to the Space Force has been the best professional decision I’ve ever made,” Owens shared.
While the transition from Soldier to Guardian was challenging, Owens said, it also provided opportunities to adapt and grow.
“My goal is to leave the Space Force in a better state than when I joined,” Owens expressed.
As the Space Force continues to evolve, its Guardians remain focused on a singular goal: ensuring the branch is strong and equipped to meet the demands of an increasingly complex operational environment. Through joint-focused operations, the Space Force ensures that America and its Allies remain prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow.
To learn more about SpOC’s Year of the NCO, visit: https://www.spoc.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Year-of-the-NCO.
This article is the last in a series highlighting the important traits our Noncommissioned Officers possess. By designating 2024 as "The Year of the NCO," Space Operations Command honored Noncommissioned Officers as the foundation of the force.