Space Force activates ‘system delta’ unit for modernized test, training infrastructure program

The Space Force’s acquisition arm recently stood up another unit under its novel “system delta” (SYD) structure, with the newest focused on development of the service’s complex test and training environment.

System Delta 81 was officially activated Sept. 9 and will support Space System Command’s (SSC) program executive office for the Operational Test and Training Infrastructure (OTTI) — a networked system of capabilities that combines digital, cyber and live test and training elements for guardians. It’s the latest unit under the Space Force’s new structure, which comprises personnel from SSC and Space Operations Command (SpOC) to improve capability delivery.

Col. Corey Klopstein, who will serve as SYD 81 commander, said in a statement that the unit will support Space Training and Readiness Command and SpOC capability needs. Through a number of partnerships across the Space Force, intelligence community and academia, the organization will work to build and field systems for operational capability testing, combat training and tactics validation, he noted.

SYD 81 is the Space Force’s fourth system delta activated since the service launched its reorganization effort in July. The unit structure aims to reform capability delivery by consolidating SSC’s acquisition offices and pairing them with operators from SpOC’s integrated mission deltas.

By doing so, the service hopes to develop new capabilities and train guardians around a single mission area — such as missile warning or space domain awareness — rather than broad functional specialties.

“The Space Force’s System Delta framework aligns our acquisition programs within mission areas, allowing us to synchronize efforts and streamline the work between acquisitions and operations with our Mission and Space Delta counterparts,” Brig. Gen. Michelle Idle, mobilization assistant to SSC commander Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant, said in a statement.

Developing a flagship test and training infrastructure has been both a top priority and significant challenge for the Space Force, as the Pentagon’s newest service has only had a few years to do so.

The OTTI program was recently divided into two separate paths: one focusing on a distributed training capability known as Swarm, and another that tackles building a high-fidelity, realistic simulation environment known as the High-End Advanced Training, Tactics and Testing (HEAT3) system.

According to SSC, the new delta will advance development of HEAT3, as well as other distributed and live test and training tools. A key focus will be building out the underlying infrastructure for an enterprise system that connects and integrates various capabilities, supports rapid system delivery, and bolsters the Space Force’s wargames and exercises.

“The efforts across SYD 81 will ensure our Guardians are equipped with the right tools, able to validate capabilities and enhance combat effectiveness,” Klopstein said in a statement. “Since day one, we have embraced change as an opportunity and know our team will work tirelessly to ensure our Guardians are ready.”