SPACECOM Chief Cites Army, Marines as Models for Expanding On-Orbit Warfighting Exercises

January 28, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1769629920351-2246

US Space Command Looks to Maneuver-Based Operations to Echo Joint Force Doctrine

Gen. Stephen Whiting, commander of US Space Command, called for a foundational pivot to maneuver-based space operations, echoing the Marine Corps doctrine. SPACECOM plans to initiate quarterly tabletop exercises with commercial providers, exploring the value of maneuver capabilities such as rendezvous and proximity operations. The initiative may signal a growing focus on space-based warfighting, but the pace of development remains uncertain.

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Key Takeaways

Gen. Stephen Whiting cites Marine Corps doctrine as model
SPACECOM seeks to invest in maneuver-based space operations
Exercises and tabletops explore value of maneuver capabilities

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Strategic Implications

This initiative may indicate SPACECOM’s growing focus on space-based warfighting, potentially signaling a shift towards more agile and responsive operations. The emphasis on logistics and sustainment suggests a need for sustained investment in enabling technologies. However, the pace of development and implementation remains uncertain.