Space Force’s acquisition arm races to rebuild contracting workforce after civilian cuts

The U.S. Space Force’s primary acquisition arm, Space Systems Command (SSC), is actively working to rebuild its contracting and procurement teams. This effort follows significant personnel reductions in 2023 stemming from broader federal staffing programs initiated during the prior administration. The shortfall is now considered a major obstacle to the Space Force’s modernization goals.

Workforce Reductions Impact Modernization

The reductions, driven by voluntary early retirement and deferred resignation programs, particularly affected acquisition and contracting roles. This timing coincides with Pentagon directives to accelerate procurement processes and embrace new technologies. Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant, commander of SSC, stated on January 22nd that addressing the contracting resource needs is a priority, especially given the new acquisition reform guidance.

Did You Know? The Department of the Air Force, which includes the Space Force, is also focused on increasing contracting resources.

The Pentagon’s acquisition reform guidance, released in November, emphasizes the need for skilled procurement professionals to implement faster modernization and integrate commercial technology. However, Lt. Gen. Garrant noted that last year’s downsizing and a government shutdown have complicated efforts to fill vacant positions. Expanding remote work options is being explored as a potential solution to broaden the applicant pool.

‘My Greatest Challenge’

Lt. Gen. Garrant identified the contracting workforce shortage as his “greatest challenge” as commander of SSC. He expressed concern that this issue could become more acute if defense funding increases substantially. President Trump has reportedly proposed a $1.5 trillion defense budget for 2027, which would likely result in new and expanded programs for the Space Force.

SSC is prioritizing the staffing of new program offices without diminishing resources from existing ones. The command experienced losses of contracting officers through voluntary early retirement and deferred resignation programs last year and is seeking relief for remote contracting officers. While considering the use of contracting buyers as a temporary fix, Lt. Gen. Garrant emphasized the importance of developing the next generation of contracting officers.

Programs Move at Slower Pace

The contracting shortage is already impacting program timelines. Insufficient contracting capacity is slowing procurement, which runs counter to the Pentagon’s push for faster acquisition. During the recent government shutdown, work continued, but at a reduced pace. SSC is actively recruiting college graduates and reaching out to military spouses for remote positions. The command is also seeking broader exemptions for remote hiring.

Expert Insight: The Space Force’s current predicament highlights the critical role of a robust acquisition workforce in translating budgetary allocations into tangible capabilities. A shortage in this area could significantly impede the implementation of modernization initiatives, even with substantial funding available.

SSC has opened offices in Huntsville, Alabama; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Boston; and Washington, D.C. to expand hiring options. Recent developments have allowed SSC to restart hiring for both Air Force and Space Force civilian positions, and contracting is a top priority.

Execution Concerns

Outside analysts, including Todd Harrison of the American Enterprise Institute, suggest that the contracting gap poses a structural risk to the Space Force as its budget grows. Harrison argues that the Space Force’s modernization risk in 2026 is not a lack of funding, but an execution gap stemming from a shrinking acquisition workforce managing increasingly complex programs. Space Force leaders reported to Congress last year that the service shed nearly 14 percent of its civilian workforce – approximately 780 personnel – through various departures.

Harrison likened the situation to the Space Force being “almost choking on funding” due to the lack of personnel to manage it effectively. Contracting officers are essential for “getting the money moving and the programs flowing,” and without a rebuilt workforce, increased funding could further strain the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the staffing shortages at Space Systems Command?

The staffing shortages were caused by personnel reductions in 2023, driven by voluntary early retirement and deferred resignation programs implemented under broader federal staffing reductions.

What is the Pentagon’s acquisition reform guidance calling for?

The Pentagon’s acquisition reform guidance, released in November, calls for developing procurement talent capable of executing reforms intended to speed modernization and make greater use of commercial technology.

What is SSC doing to address the shortage?

SSC is aggressively hiring against vacancies, prioritizing mission area and location. They are also recruiting college graduates, reaching out to military spouses, and seeking exemptions for broader remote hiring.

As the Space Force anticipates potential budget increases, will it be able to effectively translate those funds into new capabilities without addressing its contracting workforce challenges?