Story perspectives

U.S. Space Force Unveils Combat Blueprint for 2040

4/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

On April 15, 2026, at the Space Foundation's 41st Space Symposium, Gen. Chance Saltzman, U.S. Space Force, announced a warfighting blueprint including Future Operating Environment 2040 and Objective Force 2040.
The blueprint defines the Space Force's mission and calls for a combat-capable service in contested environments against China and Russia.
It calls to expand satellite constellation and enhance missile warning, navigation, and electronic warfare, inviting critique to refine the strategy.

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Story summary

On April 15, 2026, at the Space Foundation's 41st Space Symposium, Gen. Chance Saltzman, U.S. Space Force, announced a warfighting blueprint including Future Operating Environment 2040 and Objective Force 2040.
The blueprint defines the Space Force's mission and calls for a combat-capable service in contested environments against China and Russia.
It calls to expand satellite constellation and enhance missile warning, navigation, and electronic warfare, inviting critique to refine the strategy.