The U.S. Air Force announced this week that Patrick Space Force Base in Florida is the preferred location to host the Space Training and Readiness Command Headquarters (STARCOM) and Space Delta 10.
“STARCOM, one of three U.S. Space Force field commands, is responsible for the deliberate development, education, and training of space professionals in addition to the development of space warfighting doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures, and the operational test and evaluation of Space Force systems,” the Air Force announced. “Space Delta 10, which is responsible for doctrine and wargaming, is expected to also be located at Patrick Space Force Base This delta develops Space Force doctrine and tactics, conducts the service’s Lessons Learned program, and executes and supports wargames to adequately posture space forces and designated joint and allied partners.
“The decision to host STARCOM HQ and the three deltas at their respective bases came after conducting site surveys at each location to assess their ability to facilitate the mission and infrastructure capacity, while accounting for community support, environmental factors, and cost,” the Air Force added. “The Department of the Air Force will now conduct environmental impact analyses at each base, which are expected to be completed later this year before final decisions are made.”
Members of the Florida congressional delegation, who had been pushing for STARCOM to be based in the state, weighed in after the announcement.
“I have been very supportive of bringing STARCOM to the Sunshine State, and today, I am proud to stand with my colleagues and Secretary Kendall to announce it will finally become a reality. This is a massive win for Florida’s role in our country’s space efforts that will bring more jobs and enhance our national security. Florida’s aerospace and aviation workforce is more than 100,000 strong with the skills and experience necessary to support STARCOM and Space Delta 10—that is complimented by the more than 40 colleges and universities boasting an extraordinary talent pipeline that continues to grow. Like I’ve always said, Florida has a long history of advancing America’s national security and leadership in space, and I’m confident this strategic decision to headquarter STARCOM and Space Delta 10 in Florida’s Space Coast will continue that tradition for years to come,” said U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla.
“Patrick SFB and Cape Canaveral SFS hold an important place in America’s storied history in space. I am thrilled that Patrick SFB and Cape Canaveral SFS have been chosen as the preferred candidate for the headquarters of STARCOM. This is a major victory for Florida, and I am confident that STARCOM will be a great success in my home state,” said U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla.
“Florida’s booming Space Coast is the world’s premiere space port and the perfect location for Space Force’s STARCOM headquarters and Delta 10 unit. We are honored to be selected as the preferred location for these two important military units,” said U.S. Rep. Bill Posey, R-Fla.
“Since the formation of U.S. Space Force under President Trump, Congressman Bill Posey and I have tirelessly pushed the Pentagon to permanently move STARCOM to Florida’s Space Coast and am thrilled by this decision,” said U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz, R-Fla. “For decades, Florida has been at the forefront of space innovation and is a natural host for this much-needed command center. As China continues to increase their launch capacity, I will continue to advocate for resources to strengthen STARCOM’s efforts to ensure the Space Force is prepared to address the threats of today and the future.”
Waltz’s office noted the “move will also bring 460 new positions along with countless jobs for the region.”
State officials also reacted to the news.
“From Project Mercury to today’s privatized spaceflight, Americans look to Florida’s Space Coast to see history in the making,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis. “We are honored to host the Space Training and Readiness Command headquarters and continue Florida’s history as America’s gateway to outer space.”
“Florida’s selection as the STARCOM headquarters underscores the state’s exceptional assets and its vital contribution to the nation’s space endeavors,” said Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez. “With an unmatched aerospace infrastructure, military installations, and top tier academic institutions, Florida provides key collaborative partnerships that will advance space military operations right from our Space Coast.”
“This decision by the U.S. Air Force reflects the strategic importance of Florida in advancing national security and defense in space,” said Frank DiBello, the president and CEO of Space Florida. “Bringing STARCOM’s headquarters to Patrick Space Force Base and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station is a significant milestone in Florida’s history and reaffirms our critical role in advancing the nation’s space and military capabilities. I want to thank USSF General Stephen Purdy for his commitment to helping build a space military operations hub in Florida.”
