Who leads the U.S. Space Force?

The Chief of Space Operations (CSO) is the leader of the U.S. Space Force, serving as its highest-ranking officer and responsible for the organization, training, and equipping the personnel within the Space Force. This position is critical as it ensures the Space Force meets its operational needs and aligns with the overall strategic goals of the United States military and national security policies.

The CSO directly oversees the execution of space operations and represents the interests of the Space Force at the highest levels of government and within the Department of Defense. This leadership role is essential for demonstrating the importance of space in national defense and ensuring the successful integration of space capabilities into joint military operations.

Other positions listed serve important roles within the overall structure of the U.S. military and intelligence community but do not directly lead the Space Force. The Secretary of the Air Force oversees the entire Air Force, including the Space Force, but it is the CSO who specifically focuses on space operations. The Chief of Staff of the Air Force primarily manages air operations and strategic direction for the Air Force, while the Director of National Intelligence is responsible for the broader intelligence community rather than specific military branches.