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United States Space Force Leader Gen. John Raymond Charts Service’s Galactic Mission

By  //  October 27, 2020

entering defining period for this country in space

Air Force Senior Airman Peyton Van Nest, a radio frequency transmission system technician with the 51st Combat Communications Special Mission Squadron at Robins Air Force Base, Ga., sets up a satellite communications antenna during Exercise Agile Reaper at Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif., Sept. 5, 2020.

(U.S. Dept of Defense) — The chief of space operations and commander of U.S. Space Command discussed challenges the U.S. is facing in space and the Space Force’s efforts to address them.

Space Force Gen. John W. “Jay” Raymond, provided remarks from the Pentagon at the virtual Air Force Rapid Sustainment Office Advanced Manufacturing Olympics.

“A war that begins or extends into space will be fought over great distances at tremendous speeds, posing significant challenges,” said Raymond, noting Great Power competition with Russia and China, outlined in the National Defense Strategy, which could pose future challenges.

Spacecom’s area of responsibility extends from 100 kilometers above Earth’s surface to the outer edge of the universe, he noted.

Today, we’re entering a defining period for this country in space. Our nation is leading an expansive spirit of space exploration and experimentation.”

Space Force Gen. John W. “Jay” Raymond, commander, U.S. Space Command

On-orbit capabilities move at speeds greater than 17,500 miles per hour. Direct ascent and satellite missiles can reach low-Earth orbit in a matter of minutes, Raymond said. Electronic attack and directed-energy weapons move at the speed of light.

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