The Space and Missile Systems Center has now been re-designated as Space Systems Command headquarters, officially establishing the newest field command of the U.S. Space Force, during a ceremony on August 13, at 10:00 a.m. PDT.
Maj. Gen. Michael A. Guetlein received his third star during a promotion ceremony prior to the re-designation ceremony and he will assume the role as commander of SSC. General John W. “Jay” Raymond, the Chief of Space Operations, United States Space Force, delivered a sincere presentation to those in attendance and online and retired the SMC flag and unfurled the new Space Systems Command flag after installing General Guetlein as first commander of this field command.
General Guetlein will be responsible for developing, acquiring, equipping, fielding and sustaining resilient space capabilities to enhance joint lethality and effectiveness. Additionally, SSC will be responsible for developmental testing, launch, on-orbit checkout, and sustainment and maintenance of U.S. Space Force space systems, as well as oversight of USSF science and technology activities.
General Raymond congratulated the entire SMC team for a job well done, stating that innovation means tomorrow looks different from today and that Space Force must take risks and pushing the boundaries. “We must outpace our competitors,” he said. “You must deliver on time. Our nation is depending upon you. Take that bold leadership necessary and I know you will deliver.“
SSC is the second of three field commands to be established following the stand-up of Space Operations Command on October 21, 2020.
Operating at the level immediately below USSF headquarters at the Pentagon, field commands reflect the newest armed force’s focus on creating a lean, agile, and mission-focused organization.