FORT BELVOIR, Va. –
National Reconnaissance Office leadership welcomed the new commander of U.S. Space Command for a tour and mission briefs at Aerospace Data Facility – East on Sept. 2.
Army Gen. James Dickinson, who assumed command of USSPACECOM Aug. 20, received in-depth briefings about the NRO from NRO Director Dr. Christopher Scolese, NRO Deputy Director Air Force Maj. Gen. Michael Guetlein and various subject matter experts.
“This is an excellent opportunity to share our vital mission with a great partner,” Scolese said. “We’re honored to host General Dickinson and showcase our high-performing people who accomplish that mission each day.”
Following social distancing and facemask protocols, Dickinson also toured the site, including the NRO Operations Center and a portion of the ADF-E Operations Floor.
During the tour, Dickinson met space operators who recently transitioned from the U.S. Air Force to the U.S. Space Force. One officer presented a briefing that was previously featured in the President’s Daily Brief.
“This is great,” Dickinson said. “You’re developing your tactics, techniques and procedures, and you can use this in the future. I applaud your efforts.”
The NRO and USSPACECOM work together closely to protect U.S. and allied interests in space, as well as defend against potential threats. Dickinson said he appreciated his visit and is impressed with the NRO’s execution of its multi-faceted, important mission.
“What you do here is remarkable,” Dickinson said. “You have opened my eyes … Your efforts are essential to our national security, and I’m excited about the amazing things you’ll continue to do in the future.”
USSPACECOM, the newest combatant command, was established within the Department of Defense on Aug. 29, 2019. Its mission includes conducting operations in, from and to space to deter conflict and defeat aggression; delivering space combat power for the joint force; and defending U.S. and vital interests with partners and allies.
The National Reconnaissance Office is the U.S. government agency in charge of designing, building, launching and maintaining U.S. intelligence satellites. Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, the NRO has total force military and civilian personnel assigned to various locations across the globe.