The United States Space Force (USSF) is the newest branch of the U.S. military — and for many families, the training pipeline is unfamiliar. Unlike the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines, the Space Force focuses on cyber, intelligence, orbital operations, and advanced technology jobs that support national security in space.
This guide explains everything families need to know about the Space Force journey:
- where Basic Military Training (BMT) happens
- what Guardians experience during training
- how Tech School works
- the earliest USSF career paths
- where Guardians are stationed
- how families can support them
- what to expect after training
This is one of the most modern, streamlined pipelines in the U.S. Armed Forces — and families play a huge role in supporting new Guardians.
Where Space Force Basic Military Training Happens
Unlike other branches, the Space Force does not run its own boot camp. All future Guardians attend:
Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) at Lackland AFB, Texas
But Space Force trainees:
- are grouped into USSF flights
- receive specialized instruction
- train under Space Force cadres
- follow unique classroom curriculum aligned with space operations
This ensures Guardians share foundational military discipline while maintaining their own identity.
What Space Force BMT Looks Like
Space Force BMT is Air Force-style training with USSF-specific academics.
New Guardians complete:
Core military training:
- drill and ceremony
- physical training
- weapons qualification
- uniform standards
- discipline & customs
- teamwork and leadership
Space Force–specific instruction:
- space operations basics
- cyber defense awareness
- orbital mission fundamentals
- secure communications
- modern warfare technology
- USSF values and culture
Graduation
Guardians participate in the Air Force BMT graduation weekend but are recognized as Space Force graduates with unique elements.
Families can attend just like Air Force graduations.
What Happens After Space Force BMT?
After graduation, Guardians transfer to the next stage:
Space Force Technical Training (“Tech School”)
This is where Guardians learn their USSF job specialty.
Most Tech School training occurs at:
Vandenberg Space Force Base — California
Home to:
- Space Operations
- Satellite Control
- Missile Tracking Systems
- Space Domain Awareness
- Orbital Warfare
- Sensor operations
- Space launch support
This is the heart of Space Force technical education.
Space Force Career Fields (Enlisted)
While still evolving, current USSF enlisted specialties include:
1. Space Systems Operations (1C6X1)
The core operational career field. Guardians learn:
- satellite operations
- orbital tracking
- data interpretation
- missile warning systems
- space domain awareness tools
2. Cyber Defense Operations (1B4X1 & USSF equivalents)
Focus on:
- protecting networks
- identifying cyber threats
- safeguarding space systems
3. Intelligence (1NXXX tracks)
Guardians may serve as:
- intelligence analysts
- targeting specialists
- imagery analysts
- cryptologic professionals
4. Communications & IT
Supporting the advanced digital infrastructure of the USSF.
5. Engineering & Technical Fields
A small but growing segment supporting system maintenance and development.
The Space Force continues evolving these into USSF-specific designations.
How Long Is Space Force Tech School?
Training length depends on the career field:
- Short programs: 6–10 weeks
- Technical programs: 3–6 months
- Cyber/Intel: 4–9 months
- Space Operations: often 3–6 months with additional qualifications
Guardians may also receive follow-on training at:
- Peterson SFB (Colorado)
- Buckley SFB (Colorado)
- Schriever SFB (Colorado)
- Patrick SFB (Florida)
- Joint Bases across the DoD
Daily Life During Space Force Tech School
Compared to other branches:
more academic focus
- less field training
- more schedule stability
- high technology environment
- structured liberty phases
- more student autonomy
Most Guardians live in:
- dorm-style housing
- controlled access barracks
- modern facilities with WiFi, study areas, and labs
Liberty & Rules
Liberty phases are similar to Air Force rules:
Phase I (Initial)
- on-base liberty
- no alcohol
- uniform requirements
Phase II
- off-base liberty
- civilian clothes permitted
- curfew enforced
Phase III
- full weekend liberty
- expanded privileges
Guardians are held to very high academic standards, so study time is significant.
Is There a Tech School Graduation Ceremony?
Typically no, but some programs hold:
- class recognition events
- small certificate ceremonies
- cohort completion awards
Family attendance is rare at this stage.
Most families visit once the Guardian reaches their first duty station.
Where Are Guardians Stationed After Training?
Space Force assignments are concentrated among a handful of major bases:
Colorado
- Peterson SFB
- Schriever SFB
- Buckley SFB
California
- Vandenberg SFB
Florida
- Patrick SFB
Alaska
- Clear Space Force Station
New Hampshire
- New Boston Space Force Station
Overseas (Limited)
- select intelligence and joint positions
Assignments depend heavily on specialty and mission needs.
How Families Can Support Their Guardian
The Space Force pipeline is academic, intense, and highly technical.
Your support matters.
Families can help by:
- Encouraging focus during heavy coursework
- Understanding limited communication during exams
- Being supportive of stress
- Providing motivation during long study blocks
- Celebrating milestones
- Learning about the Guardian’s career field
Guardians often say Tech School feels like a college + military hybrid — structured but intellectually demanding.
Frequently Asked Questions About Space Force Training
Is Space Force training harder than other branches?
Physically no — academically yes.
Do Guardians go to the field?
Very rarely; USSF focuses on technical mission sets.
Can families attend BMT graduation?
Yes — same structure as Air Force graduation.
Can Guardians drive their own car during Tech School?
Often yes, after phase advancement.
Do Guardians get leave after Tech School?
Sometimes, depending on orders and mission needs.
Celebrate Your Guardian’s Journey With Apparel That Honors Their Achievement
Whether your Guardian is headed to Lackland, Vandenberg, Colorado, or beyond, families love showing their pride during training milestones.
Explore Space Force–inspired styles, patriotic apparel, and meaningful family gear
(Add Space Force collection link once ready)
Oak & Liberty proudly supports Guardians and their families during every step of the newest military branch’s journey.