A recent executive order from the Trump administration underscores the US Space Force’s commitment to integrating private-sector space technologies. Col. Richard Kniseley, head of the Commercial Space Office (COMSO) within the Space Systems Command, sees the order as a validation of existing efforts to modernize how the Pentagon acquires space capabilities. “We’ve done so much of a grassroots effort in COMSO … showing how amazing the commercial capabilities are,” Kniseley told reporters at the Space Symposium.
The executive order, focused on reforming Department of Defense procurement, prioritizes commercial products. COMSO, established in 2023, utilizes a strategy of “Exploit what we have, buy what we can and build only what we must.” It oversees the Commercial Satellite Communications Office, SpaceWERX, and programs like the Commercial Augmentation Space Reserve (CASR). Congressional support has been crucial, with $50 million allocated in the 2024 defense spending bill and $40 million in 2025 specifically for commercial space services. “What that did was help make our commercial services program relevant,” Kniseley said.
Kniseley emphasized that this shift began before the executive order. A directive signed late last year by Gen. Michael Guetlein and Frank Calvelli mandated a review of procurement requirements to identify opportunities for commercial solutions. This analysis, expected to conclude soon, will likely impact future budgets. The process involves vetting companies based on their investments, contracts, and capabilities.
While the transition to commercial services won’t be immediate, requiring more resources and specialized contracting officers, Kniseley remains optimistic. He notes that defense committees in Congress are “very forward leaning with commercial” and receptive to their requests. The military’s interest encompasses satellite communications, imagery, space object tracking, and navigation solutions. Emerging areas include responsive launch, in-orbit servicing, debris removal, and environmental monitoring.