US Space Force Lt. Col. Latasha Spear (right) awaits to assume command of the 5th SOPS at the Bolling Club on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling in Washington, D.C., June 3, 2024. (Image source: Airman Shanel Toussaint/US Air Force)
In a ceremony steeped in both history and the promise of the future, the US Space Force activated the 5th Space Operations Squadron (5th SOPS) on June 3rd, 2024.
The activation signifies a changing of the guard, as Delta 9’s Detachment 1 relinquishes its role overseeing the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV) to this newly formed squadron.
The X-37B program itself is a cornerstone of US space exploration, pushing the boundaries of reusable spacecraft technology. This unmanned space vehicle serves as a platform for experimenting with advanced technologies critical for national security.
Lt. Col. Latasha Spear takes the helm of the 5th SOPS, following a distinguished career and the exemplary leadership of Maj. Eric Wilson, who received the Meritorious Service Medal during the ceremony.
“[The] Fifth SOPS is under great hands with Lt. Col. Spear,” said Maj. Wilson. “I have no doubt she will ensure [the Squadron] is able to continue the great lineage of excellence [established by Detachment 1 Guardians].”
The 5th SOPS boasts a long and storied tradition dating back to the early 1960s.
Originally known as the Air Force Satellite Control Facility, this unit played a critical role in solidifying the US Air Force‘s position as a major player in space operations by establishing its expertise in satellite control. It was then provisionally activated on October 1st, 1992, as Operating Location-A under the 750th Space Group.
US Air Force’s X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle Mission 5. (Image source: DVIDS)
Securing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific: The 5th SOPS Mission
The activation ceremony underscored the significance of the 5th SOPS mission for the Space Force’s Indo-Pacific Command.
In a ceremony steeped in both history and the promise of the future, the US Space Force activated the 5th Space Operations Squadron (5th SOPS) on June 3rd, 2024.
The activation signifies a changing of the guard, as Delta 9’s Detachment 1 relinquishes its role overseeing the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle (OTV) to this newly formed squadron.
The X-37B program itself is a cornerstone of US space exploration, pushing the boundaries of reusable spacecraft technology. This unmanned space vehicle serves as a platform for experimenting with advanced technologies critical for national security.
Lt. Col. Latasha Spear takes the helm of the 5th SOPS, following a distinguished career and the exemplary leadership of Maj. Eric Wilson, who received the Meritorious Service Medal during the ceremony.
“[The] Fifth SOPS is under great hands with Lt. Col. Spear,” said Maj. Wilson. “I have no doubt she will ensure [the Squadron] is able to continue the great lineage of excellence [established by Detachment 1 Guardians].”
The 5th SOPS boasts a long and storied tradition dating back to the early 1960s.
Originally known as the Air Force Satellite Control Facility, this unit played a critical role in solidifying the US Air Force‘s position as a major player in space operations by establishing its expertise in satellite control. It was then provisionally activated on October 1st, 1992, as Operating Location-A under the 750th Space Group.
US Air Force’s X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle Mission 5. (Image source: DVIDS)
Securing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific: The 5th SOPS Mission
The activation ceremony underscored the significance of the 5th SOPS mission for the Space Force’s Indo-Pacific Command.
Brig. Gen. Anthony Mastalir, the commander, emphasized the squadron’s role in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
“The knowledge gained through test and experimentation at 5 SOPS will be instrumental in our goal to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Brig. Gen. Mastalir remarked during the ceremony.
Building on this theme, Col. Mark Bigley, commander of Delta 9, echoed the importance of the 5th SOPS mission.
“The squadron’s activation ensures continued advancements in X-37B technology,” Bigley stated.
The ceremony culminated in a momentous display of tradition—Master Sgt. Joseph Wood unfurled the 5th SOPS colors and raised the guidon, a symbolic act marked Lt. Col. Spear’s official assumption of command.
Leading the Way in the Era of Great Power Competition
Col. Bigley (left) passes the 5th SOPS guidon to Lt. Col. Spear (right) during an activation ceremony. (Image source: DVIDS)
Prior to assuming her new position, Lt. Col. Spear served as the division chief of joint fires and information operations at Vandenberg Space Force Base. In her address to the troops, she acknowledged the weight of the mission and her unwavering commitment.
“To the men and women of the mighty 5th SOPS,” Lt. Col. Spear declared, “I am honored to be your first commander. The 5th SOPS stands ready to contribute to our nation’s spacepower and to securing peace in this era of Great Power Competition.”
The activation of the 5th SOPS signifies a new chapter in US space exploration.
With a dedicated team and a focus on cutting-edge technology, the squadron is poised to play a vital role in safeguarding America’s interests in the increasingly competitive domain of space.
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