DAFPD13-6 — Space Policy

DAFPD13-6 governs Department of the Air Force space policy, including space capabilities, science and technology, architectures, and acquisition.

Search DAFPD13-6

  • Publication number: DAFPD13-6
  • Title: Space Policy
  • Date: 2023-12-05

View DAFPD13-6 on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses the USSF mission, space as a warfighting domain, unity across the space enterprise, research, testing, training, architectures, and space-system acquisition. It requires mandatory compliance and establishes responsibilities for senior Department of the Air Force and Space Force leaders.

Applies to: This policy directive applies to all uniformed members of the United States Space Force (USSF), Regular Air Force, the Air Force Reserve, the Air National Guard, and civilian employees of the DAF.

Topics covered

  • Space policy
  • Space capabilities
  • Science and technology
  • Space architectures
  • Operational test and training infrastructure
  • Acquisition of space systems and programs

Questions and answers

What is SAF/SQ responsible for in space acquisition?

SAF/SQ has overall responsibility for the acquisition of space systems and programs for the DAF, consistent with Title 10 USC §§ 9013-9016, and subject to the authority, direction, and control of the SecAF. (paragraph 2)

What does the Space Acquisition Council oversee?

In accordance with Title 10 USC § 9021, the SAC oversees, directs, and manages acquisition and integration of space systems and programs of the Armed Forces, in order to ensure integration across the NSSE. (paragraph 2)

What does the DAF seek to do with the NOFORN classification caveat?

Seek opportunities to minimize classification levels, declassify, and/or eliminate the use of the classification caveat “Not Releasable to Foreign Nationals (NOFORN)” for capabilities, data, documents, and discussions except as directed by United States National Disclosure Policy, DoD, DAF, or other governing policy and guidance. (paragraph 2)

What does DAFPD13-6 require for operational test and training infrastructure?

Develop and manage an enterprise approach to operational test and training infrastructure (OTTI) comprised of a realistic, threat-relevant, and integrated architecture to achieve and sustain full-spectrum readiness. (paragraph 2)

What must space architectures integrate with?

Ensure space architectures integrate with existing and approved USG, allied, partner, and commercial future architectures and capabilities to fully integrate space capabilities, missions, and data across joint and combined all-domain operations. (paragraph 2)

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