**Current Leadership in Space Force Acquisition**
The Space Force currently does not have a Senate-confirmed acquisition executive. However, Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, the interim procurement lead, expressed his intention to accelerate reform efforts initiated by Frank Calvelli, the former head of space acquisition. Calvelli’s guidelines aimed at expediting the delivery of satellites and ground systems by enhancing accountability among program managers and preferring mostly fixed-price contracts along with commercial capabilities.
**Focus on Acquisition Reform**
Maj. Gen. Purdy, who has been acting in the acquisition role since Calvelli’s departure in January 2023, emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum in acquisition accountability initiatives. During a speech at the Defense Space and Intelligence Conference in Reston, Virginia, Purdy reiterated the need for good acquisition principles, including the emphasis on fixed-price contracts and efficient development timelines.
**Tracking Space Force Progress**
Purdy’s approach during this leadership transition includes two main focuses: sustaining momentum on accountability initiatives and establishing robust tracking processes for the Space Force’s progress. He aims to provide future leaders with necessary data for decision-making when a new acquisition executive is confirmed.
**Performance Monitoring Initiatives**
In light of potential scrutiny from Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) regarding the Defense Department’s $850 billion budget, Purdy is prioritizing tracking performance metrics. He highlighted previous program restructurings under Calvelli, where 14 underperforming classified programs were cut or restructured, and efforts are underway to reassess all contracts for cost overages or delays.
**Reevaluating Satellite Procurement**
Purdy shared an update regarding the Space Force’s initiative to procure small satellites for monitoring geosynchronous orbit (approximately 22,000 miles above Earth). He noted that after a program review, the service intends to simplify the harsh requirements stated in the request for information, promoting a more welcoming environment for commercial firms to respond.
**Transitioning to Fixed-Price Contracts**
The acquisition office is focused on completing Calvelli’s initiative to convert cost-plus contracts to fixed-price agreements, thus shifting cost responsibilities to companies and minimizing government risk. Currently, around half of Space Force contracts still operate under the cost-plus model, a situation Purdy regards as needing urgent reevaluation.
**Progress on Delayed Programs**
Purdy also highlighted progress on two delayed systems: the Next-Generation Operational Control Segment (OCX) and the Advanced Tracking and Launch Analysis System (ATLAS). The OCX, developed by RTX, is nearing completion of its testing program with 97% of requirements confirmed. Purdy mentioned plans to transition OCX to operations by summer. Similarly, ATLAS, developed by L3Harris, has been providing regular software updates and is expected to be ready for initial operations by summer.
**Expert Overview**
The article is authored by Courtney Albon, a reporter specializing in space and emerging technology at C4ISRNET with experience covering military acquisition, budget, and policy issues since 2012.
