Space Force accelerates reorganization of acquisition units 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Space Force is standing up several new mission-focused acquisition units as it pushes to speed delivery of satellites, launch services and other space systems needed to counter China and Russia.

Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant, head of the Space Systems Command, said the restructuring — centered on “System Deltas” that pair acquisition officers with operational commanders — is progressing at a fast pace.

“Over the next two months, you’re going to see us finish out standing up those Systems Deltas and really tightening that connection with the Mission Deltas and the warfighter,” he said.

Garrant spoke with SpaceNews from the Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance (AMOS) Conference in Hawaii.

More ‘System Deltas’ activated

The Space Force launched its first pilot System Deltas in late 2023, but Garrant’s command has been adding new ones in quick succession this summer. Units focused on missile warning, space-based sensing, space domain awareness, and training infrastructure have all been activated in recent months.

The service expects to have as many as 10 operational by year-end, covering critical areas such as satellite communications, combat power, assured access to space, and position, navigation and timing.

“We’re seeing a lot of excitement from the organizations, a lot of esprit de corps,” Garrant said, describing momentum behind the changes.

Acquisition-operations link

System Deltas consolidate program managers, engineers, and contracting staff who once worked in separate offices. Each unit is led by a colonel who coordinates directly with a Mission Delta counterpart in Space Operations Command, the service’s operational arm.

The goal is to cut bureaucratic seams that historically slowed acquisitions and sometimes produced systems that didn’t fully meet operational needs. “It’s really allowed the PEOs to be very strategic and focused while still executing their programs,” Garrant said, referring to program executive officers.

The stand-up of these new units highlights the service’s shift toward preparing for real-world space conflicts, not just supporting other branches.

Workforce pressure

The reorganization comes as SSC is also slimming its headquarters after losing about 14% of its civilian workforce in Trump-mandated cuts, including 450 Space Force acquisition staff. Contracting offices were disproportionately affected, creating delays in some awards.

Garrant said the command is restructuring to ensure program offices get the contracting officers they need, even as headquarters becomes leaner. His priority, he said, is to “put resources back into the program offices, make the staff pretty lean, and really get us back into the role of policy and guidance.”

Space Force System Deltas currently active:

• 2 Initial System Deltas (December 2023): Electromagnetic Warfare and Position, Navigation & Timing pilots
• System Delta 84 (July 10, 2025): Space Sensing
• System Delta 810 (July 10, 2025): Space-based Sensing & Targeting
• System Delta 85 (August 8, 2025): Space Domain Awareness/Battle Management
• System Delta 81 (September 9, 2025): Operational Test & Training Infrastructure

Space Force System Deltas planned activations:

• System Delta 88: Satellite Communications
• System Delta 89: Combat Power
• System Delta 831: Position, Navigation & Timing
• System Delta 80: Assured Access to Space