Schiess Assumes Command as Space Force's Third Chief of Space Operations
September 4, 2026
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