VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. –
Lt. Gen. Dennis Bythewood, commander of U.S. Space Forces – Space (S4S) and the Combined Joint Force Space Component Commander, discussed the importance of space superiority and integrated space operations during an interview hosted by the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies as part of its Schriever Spacepower Series in Arlington, Va., March 13, 2026.
During the discussion, Bythewood emphasized how space capabilities underpin modern military operations and enable the Joint Force to project power, maintain awareness and operate globally.
“Space superiority is really a prerequisite for all the other things that we need to execute within that domain,” Bythewood said. “It allows us to control the domain at the time and place we need and provide the services the joint force depends on.”
As the operational arm responsible for delivering space capabilities to combatant commanders worldwide, S4S integrates global space operations and synchronizes space effects across the joint force. The command provides critical capabilities such as missile warning and tracking; satellite communications; and positioning, navigation and timing that enable military operations in every theater.
Bythewood noted that space has become increasingly contested as adversaries develop counterspace capabilities designed to disrupt or degrade U.S. and allied space systems.
“Our adversaries understand how much we depend on space,” he said. “They’re building capabilities intended to hold those systems at risk, which means we have to be prepared to counter those threats and continue delivering the effects the joint force relies on.”
Ensuring space superiority requires more than actions within the space domain alone, Bythewood said, noting that achieving it depends on coordinated efforts across multiple domains and organizations.
“It isn’t us acting by ourselves within the domain that creates space superiority,” he said. “You’re bringing together cyber capabilities, electronic warfare, terrestrial strike and other joint force effects to counter threats and protect the domain.”
The discussion also highlighted the importance of Allied and partner integration in space operations. Through multinational initiatives such as Operation Olympic Defender, U.S. Space Command works with international partners to strengthen operational coordination and improve resilience across shared space capabilities.
“In this domain, we operate better when we operate with Allies and partners,” Bythewood said. “Integrating those capabilities allows us to strengthen our collective ability to operate in a contested environment.”
As the space domain continues to evolve, Bythewood said maintaining an advantage will require continued investment in resilient architecture, advanced technologies and Guardians trained to operate in increasingly complex environments.
“Just like in every other domain, the Space Force needs the ability to protect its assets from threats,” he said. “That means building resilient systems, training our operators to fight through disruption, and ensuring we can continue delivering the capabilities the joint force requires.”
Looking ahead, Bythewood said S4S will remain focused on integrating capabilities across the joint force, Allies and industry partners to ensure space remains a decisive advantage for the United States.
“Our job is to integrate those capabilities and ensure combatant commanders receive the space support they need, when they need it,” he said.
To see the full video of the event, please visit:
https://www.mitchellaerospacepower.org/events/lt-gen-dennis-o-bythewood/