2 NASIC squadrons at Wright-Patterson to transition to Space Force, commander says

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB — Two squadrons that are part of the National Air and Space Intelligence Center at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base have been ordered to transition and become a part of Space Force.

The news was announced by Air Force Col. Mo Calabrese, NASIC commander, during the first Ohio Space Forum, held virtually Thursday.

The two squadrons will be part of the development of Space Force’s intelligence command, however this is one of the first stages for developing the entire new intelligence operation, Calabrese said.

“A space intelligence center is not something you do in a year. We’re talking years to build; however, the core of that is going to be right here at NASIC and Wright Patt, Ohio,” Calabrese said. “So, the Secretary of the Air Force has designated two of our squadrons to transition into Space Force.”

“While (NASIC is) the nation’s air and space intelligence center, we are also a service intelligence center for not just the U.S. Air Force anymore, but also the United States Space Force, up until they perhaps have their own center,” Calabrese said.

Groundbreaking will take place next week on a new intelligence production complex for NASIC that will expand the command’s operation.

“It’s going to add about 250,000 square feet. It’s going to help us. We are about 1,000 seats short for the workforce we have. It’s going to help build that out,” Calabrese said.

The new building has been in the works for several years, however work done in that building will ultimately support both the Air Force and Space Force, a NASIC spokesperson told News Center 7.

The announcement of the first Space Force operations at Wright-Patt comes as the base continues to be in the running for the permanent headquarters for the new military branch.

“Ohio is a powerful contender to become home of the permanent headquarters of the United States Space Command,” Gov. Mike DeWine said during the Space Forum. “I am fully committed to furthering Ohio as a key partner and leader in the national space strategy.”

“As I told President Trump, Ohio led this nation into the air age into the early 20th century. I have every desire that Ohio will lead the nation in the aerospace age through the 21st century,” DeWine said.

In addition to the direct impact on WPAFB and the surrounding areas the further establishment of Space Force could mean more commands created and established in the area. The National Guard has expressed interest in creating a “space national guard” and the Air National Guard in Springfield could be part of Ohio’s continued presence in Space Force’s establishment.

“The National Guard in (Washington) D.C. has stated a desire to create a space national guard,” Lt. Col. Michael Roark Commander of Intelligence Surveillance and Recognizance Group for the Air National Guard in Springfield said.

“In Ohio, our leadership has stated if that were to happen, that some elements of my group would be a target for that – for there to be an Ohio presence in the Space National Guard. We obviously support that," Roark said.

Cox Media Group