SPOCMD202 — Space Defense Squadrons

SPOCMD202 governs the mission, organization, and responsibilities of U.S. Space Force Space Defense Squadrons.

Search SPOCMD202

  • Publication number: SPOCMD202
  • Title: SPACE DEFENSE SQUADRONS
  • Date: 2023-05-23

View SPOCMD202 on armypubs.army.mil


It describes the missions, locations, systems, threat environments, and future requirements of the 18th and 19th Space Defense Squadrons. Compliance with the publication is mandatory, and prescribed-process records must be maintained and disposed of under specified records-management requirements.

Applies to: This mission directive applies to HQ SpOC and subordinate space defense units.

Topics covered

  • Space Domain Awareness
  • 18th Space Defense Squadron
  • 19th Space Defense Squadron
  • Space Defense Operations Center
  • Threat environments
  • Resident Space Object database maintenance

Questions and answers

What is the combined mission of the Space Defense Squadrons?

The combined mission of the Space Defense Squadrons is to prepare, present and project assigned and attached forces for the purpose of conducting Space Domain Awareness (SDA) to enhance an information advantage and enable space superiority in the defense of U.S. and allied interests. (paragraph 1)

How many active-duty Space Defense Squadrons are there?

There are two active-duty squadrons: 18th Space Defense Squadron (18 SDS) and 19th Space Defense Squadron (19 SDS). (paragraph 1)

What does 18 SDS provide for senior leader decisions?

18 SDS provides the foundation for a Common Operating Picture to support senior leader decisions that enables combat operations and decision advantage. (paragraph 1)

What threat levels is 18 SDS organized to operate within?

18 SDS has been organized/designed to operate within Threat Level 1, Threat Level 2, and Threat Level 3. (paragraph 1)

What does ASW support?

ASW program of record supports the majority of the Resident Space Object database maintenance and all conjunction assessment/human space flight support operations. (paragraph 1)

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