STARCOM Releases Commander's Strategic Vision

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Maj. Gen. James E. Smith, Commander, Space Training and Readiness Command, speaks with U.S. Space Force Guardians before a graduation ceremony at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, Dec. 18, 2025. The ceremony marked the completion of Department of the Air Force Basic Military Training for Flights 057-063 and was the first BMT graduation where Guardians wore the new Space Force service dress uniform. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jonathan R. Mallard)

Published Jan. 16, 2026
By Brandon Kalloo Sanes
Space Training and Readiness Command

PATRICK SPACE FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Maj. Gen. James E. Smith, Space Training and Readiness Command commander, released his strategic vision to the command on Jan. 8, 2026.

The vision document describes how the command will develop combat-credible space forces in support of the United States Space Force mission to secure the Nation’s interests in, from, and to space.

It frames STARCOM as the Space Force’s warfighting crucible—where Guardians are trained and educated, systems are evaluated, and tactics are integrated to deliver measurable combat credibility across the space domain.

Guided by the commander’s intent, the strategic vision outlines three focus areas that will drive the command’s priorities:
•           Create combat credibility – Advancing Guardian warfighting expertise and validating systems and tactics in combat-realistic environments.
•           Bolster our baseline – Strengthening and normalizing the command’s foundational processes, plans, and operational framework.
•           Cultivate a collaborative culture – Building a team-first culture and strengthening partnerships across the Joint Force, industry, and allied and partner nations.

The strategic vision serves as the authoritative framework for STARCOM’s future plans and orders, aligning training, testing, and readiness efforts with evolving operational demands and leadership priorities.

You can read the full document here.