Schiess Assumes Command as Space Force's Third Chief of Space Operations

Gen. Douglas Schiess took over as the U.S. Space Force's third chief of space operations on Sept. 3, succeeding Gen. Chance Saltzman. The transfer took place at a ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

The leadership change marks a milestone for the youngest branch of the U.S. military. Schiess assumes the role at a time of growing military focus on space as a contested domain.

Saltzman stepped down after serving as the service's second chief of space operations. The ceremony at Joint Base Andrews formalized the handover to Schiess, who now leads the Space Force during a period described as one of preparation for expansion.

The transition is notable given how recently the Space Force was established. As the service's third top officer, Schiess inherits leadership at a moment of increasing attention to the military role of space.

What to watch next will be how the anticipated expansion takes shape under Schiess and the direction he sets for the service in the coming period.