SPACEFOR-SOUTH Collaborates with University of Arizona to Bolster Hemispheric Space Capabilities

Partnership aims to develop space expertise and expand opportunities in Latin America

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:28pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bold, abstract painting featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals in soft colors, representing the complex scientific and technological concepts behind the partnership between the U.S. Space Force and the University of Arizona to advance space capabilities in Latin America.A conceptual illustration of the collaborative efforts between the U.S. Space Force and the University of Arizona to bolster space capabilities and expertise across the Western Hemisphere.Tucson Today

The U.S. Space Forces Southern (SPACEFOR-SOUTH) Guardians have met with the University of Arizona's Kyl Institute for National Security to discuss academic collaboration for future space operations. This engagement is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with space research programs, develop Guardians through existing research, and expand partnership opportunities in Latin America.

Why it matters

Many countries in Latin America lack the educational institutions necessary to develop foundational space capabilities. This collaboration aims to help build independent space capability in partner nations, enabling them to leverage advanced systems without having to develop them entirely on their own. It also positions the U.S. Space Force as the partner of choice for Latin American countries, strengthening regional trust and enhancing long-term cooperation and security in the Western Hemisphere.

The details

Through this academic collaboration, the U.S. Space Force will gain access to critical training and technologies needed to counter non-hemispheric actors in the region and share capabilities with partner nations. The University of Arizona's Kyl Institute highlighted its existing partnerships with the joint force in virtual military scenario development and proposed expanding into space and cyber simulations tailored to USSOUTHCOM objectives, including countering narcoterrorism at its origin.

  • The engagement took place on April 2, 2026 in Tucson, Arizona.

The players

U.S. Space Forces Southern (SPACEFOR-SOUTH)

A military organization responsible for space operations in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility.

University of Arizona's Kyl Institute for National Security

An academic institution that conducts research and provides expertise on national security issues.

Lt. Col. Benton Enomoto

The acting deputy commander of SPACEFOR-SOUTH.

Lt. Col. Daniel Morales

The chief of plans for SPACEFOR-SOUTH.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“For SPACEFOR-SOUTH, fostering partnerships with academic institutions is fundamental to advancing space capabilities in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. This strategy directly supports allied nations by building a robust aerospace education base and accelerating the growth of their sovereign space ecosystems, ensuring our collective security and shared interests in the hemisphere.”

— Lt. Col. Benton Enomoto, SPACEFOR-SOUTH acting deputy commander

“We have already extended invitations for members of the Kyl Institute to join us in our upcoming space domain working groups held in our partner nations.”

— Lt. Col. Daniel Morales, SPACEFOR-SOUTH chief of plans

What’s next

SPACEFOR-SOUTH plans to connect partner nations with the Kyl Institute's assets to support space-focused development initiatives. The University of Arizona's Kyl Institute also proposed expanding its existing partnerships with the joint force into space and cyber simulations tailored to USSOUTHCOM objectives.

The takeaway

This collaboration between SPACEFOR-SOUTH and the University of Arizona's Kyl Institute represents a strategic effort to build space capabilities and expertise in Latin America. By fostering academic partnerships and providing access to advanced training and technologies, the U.S. Space Force aims to empower its regional partners and strengthen long-term cooperation and security in the Western Hemisphere.