Space Force’s rapid acquisition office director moves to Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center

2026-06-18 · Source: SpaceNews · Field: Government & Public Sector — Public Policy & Governance, Public Safety & Security, Public Finance & Administration · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

Kelly Hammett, former director of the Space Rapid Capabilities Office (Space RCO), has been appointed executive director of the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center (AFNWC), effective June 18. This transition occurs as the Space RCO, which Hammett led since 2022, faces elimination as a standalone organization under a Space Force acquisition overhaul. Both the House and Senate versions of the fiscal 2027 National Defense Authorization Act propose removing the Space RCO's separate statutory status. The Space RCO, established in 2018 to accelerate procurements and counter threats from China and Russia, is being absorbed, alongside the Space Development Agency (SDA), into a new framework centered on Portfolio Acquisition Executives. The AFNWC, also headquartered at Kirtland Air Force Base, oversees nuclear weapons acquisition and sustainment for Air Force Global Strike Command. While SDA's responsibilities are being reallocated, the future disposition of Space RCO programs within the new structure remains undefined. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink states the overhaul aims to extend rapid-acquisition culture across the Space Force.

Key takeaway

For defense contractors and program managers engaged with Space Force acquisition, this reorganization signals a critical shift. The consolidation of rapid acquisition entities like the Space RCO and SDA into a Portfolio Acquisition Executive framework means you must re-evaluate engagement strategies. Understand how your programs align with these new mission-focused portfolios and anticipate changes in contracting and program oversight. Proactively identify the new points of contact and decision-makers to maintain effective collaboration and secure future opportunities.

Key insights

The Space Force is consolidating rapid acquisition offices like Space RCO and SDA into a new Portfolio Acquisition Executive framework.

Principles

• Rapid acquisition models are being integrated enterprise-wide.
• Centralized acquisition aims for broader efficiency.
• Statutory changes drive organizational restructuring.

Method

The Space Force is implementing a new acquisition structure centered on Portfolio Acquisition Executives, consolidating rapid acquisition entities like Space RCO and SDA under broad mission areas.

In practice

• Monitor Space RCO program reassignments.
• Track fiscal 2027 NDAA acquisition changes.
• Assess impact of new Portfolio Acquisition Executives.

Topics

• Space Force Acquisition
• Space Rapid Capabilities Office
• Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center
• Portfolio Acquisition Executives
• National Defense Authorization Act
• Space Development Agency

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