VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. –
After nearly a decade of distinguished service in the U.S. Army, Capt. Matthew Connell transferred to the U.S. Space Force through the Interservice Transfer program and a ceremony held July 31, 2025, at Schriever Space Force Base, Colo., continuing his leadership role and mission support at the National Space Defense Center and Space Delta 15.
Connell’s journey into the space domain began in the Army, where he served as a space operations officer with a focus on orbital warfare at tactical and operational levels. Assigned to both the NSDC and Space Delta 15, he worked alongside joint and interagency teams to plan, execute, and assess offensive space operations in support of combatant command objectives. His deep operational experience made the transition to the Space Force not just logical, but a mission-critical contribution to a service tasked with protecting vital global space domain capabilities.
“After serving proudly in the Army for nine years, I recognized an opportunity to apply my background in a new capacity,” Connell said. “The Space Force represents more than just innovation; it’s a fundamental shift in how we conduct warfare in the space domain. I felt called to be part of that future. This wasn’t about leaving something behind, it was about continuing to serve where I could contribute most effectively.”
Now wearing the Space Force uniform, Connell remains with the same team and mission, stepping into the role of Chief of the Fires Branch. In this capacity, he leads the integration and coordination of space-based fires, enabling space superiority and supporting both kinetic and non-kinetic operations. His efforts are instrumental in synchronizing space effects with joint warfighters and interagency partners across combatant commands, reinforcing the warfighter mindset central to U.S. Space Forces – Space (S4S)’s role in the Joint and Combined force.
“My mission is to turn planning into precision and connect doctrine with execution,” he explained. “Space superiority isn’t guaranteed-it must be achieved and sustained. That’s what excites me most about continuing this work in the Space Force.”
Connell’s focus directly supports S4S’s commitment to deliver essential space-based effects that bolster deterrence and secure U.S. and allied interests.
Connell brings with him a strong foundation in air missile defense, multi-domain operations, and joint planning-skills cultivated in high-tempo environments, both stateside and overseas. His cross-service coordination experience is a natural fit for the complex and integrated mission sets the Space Force tackles daily.
“I’ve led teams under pressure and collaborated across branches to achieve mission success,” he said. “Those experiences translate directly into the Space Force’s mission to secure the ultimate high ground.”
His transfer highlights how joint talent integration strengthens space operations and deepens our strategic advantage with allies, partners and industry.
With that mission comes significant challenges. As Connell sees it, space is an increasingly contested and competitive domain. Success depends on seamless integration across services, agile doctrine, and resilient, interoperable systems. He’s prepared to lead through these challenges by applying operational space control tactics that enhance the nation’s warfighting capabilities. His work contributes to maintaining a resilient space network through coordinated operations and commercial engagement.
Looking ahead, he encourages other service members considering a transfer to see the Space Force for what it truly is: a unique opportunity to shape a new warfighting culture.
“If you’re considering a transfer, know that the Space Force is not just about building a new service, it’s about shaping the way we fight in a new domain,” he said. “You have the chance to influence doctrine, execute real-world missions, and work alongside top-tier professionals from across the joint force and industry. Your experience-whether in air, land, sea, or cyber-has immense value here.”
Such transfers not only broaden individual impact but also strengthen S4S’s rotational forces under the SPAFORGEN model, enhancing mission delivery and readiness.
Connell’s transfer not only marked a personal milestone but also underscored the growing integration of joint talent into the Space Force’s warfighting enterprise. His continued leadership within the Fires Branch directly contributes to S4S’s ability to project combat-ready spacepower and achieve space superiority.
As part of the S4S team, Connell’s work at the NSDC and Space Delta 15 plays a vital role in delivering warfighting effects in support of combatant command objectives. His efforts help operationalize the planning, integration, and execution of space control as part of the Space Force’s warfighting arm, ensuring space capabilities are seamlessly integrated across the joint force.
By aligning these operations with responsible conduct and deterrence objectives, Connell exemplifies the leadership needed to ensure uninterrupted global services and the long-term sustainability of the space domain.