Pentagon Acquisition Reforms Could Reshape Space Agencies

Acting SDA director says organizations like the Space Development Agency 'probably won't' exist in their current form in the future.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:51pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D macro illustration of a futuristic satellite network infrastructure, with neon cyan and magenta lights illuminating the complex hardware and digital components, conceptually representing the advanced, interconnected space technology powering critical military and communications systems.As the Pentagon reshapes its space acquisition structure, the future of organizations like the Space Development Agency remains uncertain, but their vital missions will endure.Colorado Springs Today

The rollout of a new portfolio-based acquisition model across the Department of Defense could significantly impact organizations like the Space Development Agency (SDA), Space Rapid Capabilities Office (Space RCO), and Space Systems Command (SSC), according to Gurpartap 'GP' Sandhoo, the acting director of SDA. Sandhoo said these entities 'probably won't' carry the same names in the future as the Pentagon delegates more acquisition authorities to new portfolio managers.

Why it matters

The Pentagon's acquisition reforms are aimed at streamlining decision-making and increasing flexibility, but could lead to the dissolution or reshaping of established space agencies like SDA that have played key roles in launching satellites and developing new capabilities. This transition raises questions about the future of critical space programs and how the Space Force will organize its various acquisition functions.

The details

Under the new portfolio model, the Space Force plans to finalize its structure within the next couple of months. While SDA, Space RCO, and SSC each focus on different space missions, Sandhoo emphasized that their essential functions will persist even as the organizations themselves may take on new names and structures. One of SDA's key projects, the Transport Layer satellite constellation for global data transport, is expected to be absorbed into a broader Space Data Network architecture overseen by a new portfolio manager.

  • In 2025, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unveiled the new portfolio acquisition executive model.
  • Over the next couple of months, the Space Force plans to finalize its portfolio structure.

The players

Gurpartap 'GP' Sandhoo

The acting director of the Space Development Agency.

Pete Hegseth

The U.S. Defense Secretary who unveiled the new portfolio acquisition executive model.

Troy Meink

The Air Force Secretary who noted that the structure of organizations like SDA is a role model for the portfolio reorganization.

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What they’re saying

“I don't want to predict the future, but five years from now, they probably — the names of the organizations will be different than what you see today.”

— Gurpartap 'GP' Sandhoo, Acting Director, Space Development Agency

“As we normalize [the portfolio structure] across all the department, we'll be working with the Hill.”

— Troy Meink, Air Force Secretary

What’s next

The Space Force plans to finalize its portfolio structure within the next couple of months, which will determine the future organizational structure of entities like SDA, Space RCO, and SSC.

The takeaway

The Pentagon's acquisition reforms are driving a major reorganization of space agencies, raising uncertainty about the future of critical space programs and capabilities. While the essential missions will continue, the transition could disrupt established organizations and require close coordination with Congress.