Washington, D.C. – Rep. Jim Cooper (D-TN) and Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL), respectively Ranking Member and Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, commented today on the latest steps in advancing America’s national security in space following the release of DOD’s report on Organizational Management Structure for the National Security Space Components of the Department of Defense. The report was required in the National Defense Authorization Act for FY18. Reps. Rogers and Cooper said:

“We have been warning for years of the need to protect our space assets and to develop more capable space systems. We are glad that the Pentagon is finally taking these steps in enhancing our space strength. This new report was required by last year’s NDAA legislation and will be helpful in speeding up acquisitions of more advanced systems, as well as giving our space professionals more clout. This report is a step in a multi-year process that we think will result in a safer, stronger America. We particularly appreciate Deputy Secretary Shanahan’s leadership on these issues and look forward to the establishment of a much-needed independent Space Force, as called for by President Trump.”

###