April 2, 2026
Colonel James Horne of the U.S. Space Force paints a clear picture of a rapidly evolving space enterprise—one that is scaling at a pace not seen since the 1970s. Speaking during the Fed Gov Today podcast, Horne explains that operations at Vandenberg Space Force Base are accelerating dramatically, with more than 70 launches and missile tests conducted in the past year alone. This surge reflects what he describes as a “second space race,” fueled by years of investment in the industrial base and a deliberate strategy to harness commercial innovation.
At the core of this growth is a fundamental shift in how the Space Force approaches acquisition and partnerships. Rather than purchasing rockets outright, the service now buys launch as a service. This model allows commercial providers to handle much of the infrastructure and delivery, while the Space Force focuses on mission assurance—especially for critical, no-fail national security missions. Horne emphasizes that this evolution creates a more collaborative relationship with industry and enables faster, more efficient access to space.
The increase in launch cadence also introduces new operational challenges. Horne compares the current environment to a startup learning how to scale. Processes that worked for a handful of launches per year no longer apply when operations exceed 70 launches annually and may soon approach 100. To keep pace, the Space Force is rethinking everything from policy and infrastructure to workforce development and mission execution.
One major initiative guiding this transformation is the “Spaceport of the Future” concept, part of the broader Spaceport 2036 vision. Horne explains that modern spaceports must operate more like commercial airports or seaports—highly integrated environments where government and industry collaborate seamlessly. This includes modernizing outdated infrastructure, much of which dates back to the 1960s, and investing more than $600 million over the next five years to improve capacity. Upgrades span critical areas such as roads, harbors, and facilities needed to support the growing volume of commercial and military activity.
At the same time, the Space Force is addressing evolving security concerns. As space becomes increasingly vital to national defense, protecting infrastructure from potential threats becomes a top priority. Horne notes that adversaries recognize the importance of space access, making resilience and defense essential components of future planning.
Technology also plays a key role in boosting efficiency. Horne highlights the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to streamline operations. New tools integrate data across the spaceport, reduce timelines from weeks to hours, and improve decision-making. One example, an automation system called “Echo,” captures and analyzes voice communications during operations, helping teams identify issues faster and train more effectively.
Ultimately, Horne underscores that the Space Force’s strategy is about balancing mission, people, and future vision. As demand grows, the service is expanding its workforce, improving quality of life, and preparing for a doubling—or even tripling—of launch activity in the coming years. The result is a more agile, innovative, and resilient space enterprise, positioned to support both national security and a thriving commercial space economy.