The DownLink Podcast Space Power: New Names May Foretell New Space Weapons Systems
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Dec 14, 2025 Charles Galbraith, a retired U.S. Space Force Colonel and director at the Mitchell Institute, shares insights from the recent Space Power Conference. He discusses the significance of Secretary of the Air Force Troy Mink's presence and how it reflects a commitment to space initiatives. Galbraith emphasizes a unique opportunity for acquisition reforms amidst changing military culture and evolving warfare strategies. He predicts new space weapon systems based on current naming conventions and highlights the importance of integrating operations with acquisition roles.
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Conference Growth Signals Institutional Weight
- The Space Power Conference has rapidly grown and now draws senior-level Department of the Air Force presence.
- Charles Galbraith says Secretary Mink's attendance signals serious institutional commitment to space within the department.
Seize The Acquisition Transformation Window
- Treat the acquisition transformation as a concrete opportunity and adopt its recommended practices quickly.
- Leverage portfolio management, commercial partnerships, OTAs, and personnel cross-flow like the Space Force already is doing.
Why A Futures Command Matters
- A Futures Command formalizes and focuses institutional attention on long-term force design and resourcing.
- Charles Galbraith argues the function existed already, but a named command will improve effectiveness and personnel clarity.