Ohio Air National Guard Joins Space Force

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The National Defense Authorization Act, enacted into law in December, created a new branch of the military called the Space Force. The 178th Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard in Springfield is now defining its role within this new Space Force.

Why it matters

The creation of the Space Force represents a major shift in the U.S. military's priorities, with a greater focus on space-based operations and technologies. As one of the first National Guard units to be integrated into the Space Force, the 178th Wing in Springfield will help shape how this new branch operates and interacts with other military forces.

The details

The 178th Wing, which is based in Springfield, Ohio, has been tasked with defining its specific mission and capabilities within the newly formed Space Force. This will likely involve specialized training, new equipment, and coordination with other Space Force units across the country.

• The National Defense Authorization Act creating the Space Force was enacted into law in December 2020.
• The 178th Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard in Springfield is now working to define its role within the Space Force.

What’s next

The 178th Wing will continue to work with Space Force leadership to determine its exact mission and capabilities within the new military branch.