The US Space Force, stationed at Buckley Space Force Base in Colorado, plays a crucial role in global missile tracking and defense operations. Recently, BBC journalists observed the Guardians' capabilities, including monitoring missile launches from adversaries like Iran. As the military expands its operations in space, officials emphasize readiness against growing threats posed by countries such as China and Russia.
US Space Force Guardians Take Center Stage in Global Missile Tracking Operations
US Space Force Guardians Take Center Stage in Global Missile Tracking Operations
BBC gains unprecedented access to Buckley Space Force Base, where US Guardians are at the forefront of missile warning operations, tracking threats worldwide in real-time.
At Buckley Space Force Base in Colorado, military personnel known as Guardians are on constant alert to track missile launches worldwide. In a rare opportunity for international journalists, the BBC was allowed inside their missile warning and tracking operations room, where they are equipped with advanced technology and operate 24/7.
The exercises at Buckley began with shouts of commands, including "Launch Yemen!" and "Launch Iran!" which triggered coordinated responses from the Guardians. During actual missions, they monitor infra-red heat signatures of missile launches, subsequently providing critical information to ground defense systems. Recently, they successfully tracked Iranian missile launches aimed at al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, averting potential losses.
Colonel Ann Hughes described the emotional toll of these operations, especially when alerting about real threats to US military personnel. Furthermore, the United States Space Force is integral to plans for a missile defense system dubbed the Golden Dome, which echoes Israel's Iron Dome. This ambitious initiative aims to enhance national security amidst rising tensions, particularly concerning China and Russia, who have developed advanced missile capabilities.
General David Miller, commander of the US Space Operations Command, highlighted space as a contested environment where both offensive and defensive tactics are being developed. With an increasing number of satellites in orbit—projected to rise from 12,000 to 60,000—Colonel Phoenix Hauser emphasized the challenges posed by adversaries engaged in covert operations in space.
Additionally, the Space Force's role extends to support operations on the ground, such as the recent US airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities, where they used their electronic warfare capabilities to ensure mission success against adversaries.
As the youngest military service, the US Space Force is critical to maintaining America’s strategic advantage. General Miller's assertive remarks encapsulate this sentiment, warning potential adversaries of the military's capabilities: "When the US military gets focused on something—God help you!"
