In a move that underscores the growing complexity and urgency of space operations, the U.S. Space Force has activated a new organizational unit, Systems Delta 85 (SYD 85), and advanced key industry partnerships to bolster its satellite communications and space superiority efforts. The developments, announced on August 20, 2025, mark a significant step in the military’s ongoing quest to modernize its approach to space-based defense and communications.
The activation ceremony for SYD 85 took place under the guidance of U.S. Air Force Brigadier General Michelle Idle, who serves as the Space Systems Command (SSC) mobilization assistant to the commander. The event saw Colonel Jason West officially take command of SYD 85, a unit crafted to streamline and unify acquisition, development, and delivery of critical space systems. According to a statement from the U.S. Space Force, the new Systems Delta framework is designed to align acquisition programs within specific mission areas, synchronizing efforts between acquisitions and operations, and ultimately optimizing the force.
“The Space Force’s System Delta framework aligns our acquisition programs within mission areas, allowing us to synchronize efforts and streamline the work between acquisitions and operations with our Mission Delta counterparts,” Idle emphasized during the ceremony. “The framework consolidates and unifies existing command authorities and activities to foster unit cohesion, align command priorities and optimize the force.”
SYD 85 is structured with three System Program Directors overseeing Battlespace Awareness, Battle Management, and Space Access and Networked Services. These are complemented by a System Program Manager focused on Space Intelligence. Together, these teams are tasked with developing and delivering sensors, antennas, data systems, and software to address evolving threats in and through the space domain. As the global landscape grows ever more contested, such capabilities are seen as essential for maintaining a technological edge.
Colonel West, now at the helm of SYD 85, outlined the unit’s ambitious mission: “Our mission in SYD 85 is to deliver effective, integrated and supported capabilities to enable space superiority and to forge a new generation of acquisitions professionals to defend our forces, homeland and allies.” He further highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, “In close collaboration with the PEO BMC3I, Space Operations Command Mission Deltas, combatant commands, intelligence community and other partners, SYD 85 is leading the way to rapid and effective fielding of new capabilities and cross-cutting integration of weapon systems critical to our national security.”
The Systems Delta model represents a shift from previous structures by consolidating design, development, and delivery of systems under mission-focused acquisition authorities. This approach complements the Mission Deltas, which are responsible for sustainment and readiness, ensuring improved coordination and unity of command. The U.S. Space Force believes this alignment will provide robust support for national security interests in, from, and to space.
Looking ahead, the Space Force plans to activate several more Systems Deltas in the coming weeks. These include SYD 81 for Test and Training, SYD 88 for Satellite Communications, SYD 89 for Combat Power, SYD 831 for Position, Navigation and Timing, and SYD 80 for Assured Access to Space. Notably, these changes will not alter the overall field command structure or require significant relocation of personnel, according to official statements.
“Our systems are the foundation that makes all other systems work. Without battle space awareness, we are blind, without intelligence, we are lost,” West remarked, underscoring the stakes involved. He left no doubt about his expectations for the new unit: “On Day One, I have one standing order for SYD 85, I want you to seize the opportunities that this SYD affords. SYD 85 strengthens connections that enable the warfighter mentality and empowers combatant commands to win the strategic advantage for the first move.”
While the organizational changes are unfolding within the Space Force, the service is also deepening partnerships with private industry to enhance its technical capabilities. On the same day as the SYD 85 activation, Mercury Systems, a Massachusetts-based technology company, announced a new production agreement with AeroVironment (AV) to supply hardware for the U.S. Space Force’s Satellite Communication Augmentation Resource (SCAR) program. This agreement builds on a previous contract from 2023 and extends Mercury’s support to two additional systems, according to a company statement cited by Military Embedded Systems.
AV had previously secured a $1.4 billion SCAR contract in 2022 from the Space Rapid Capabilities Office. The SCAR program is centered around AV’s BADGER system—a multi-band, deployable ground communications solution. The BADGER system stands out for its use of reconfigurable beamforming tiles, which enable flexible and resilient satellite command and control. Mercury’s contribution comes in the form of an FPGA-based signal acquisition and digital beamforming solution, leveraging its Quartz RFSoC and Navigator Design Suite products.
The partnership has already yielded results, with Mercury producing hardware for the first four BADGER units under the earlier agreement. The latest deal will see the company extend its expertise to two more systems, further strengthening the SCAR program’s capabilities. According to Mercury’s statement, the first BADGER unit is set for delivery later in 2025, marking a critical milestone in the program’s timeline.
The overarching goal of the SCAR program is to enhance the resilience and flexibility of ground-based satellite communications—a priority as adversaries develop ever more sophisticated means of disrupting space-based networks. By integrating advanced hardware and software solutions, the Space Force aims to ensure uninterrupted command and control, even in contested environments.
These parallel developments—the activation of SYD 85 and the expansion of the SCAR program—reflect the Space Force’s dual-track strategy: strengthening internal structures while leveraging industry partnerships. The combination is intended to accelerate the delivery of cutting-edge capabilities, streamline operations, and reinforce the United States’ position in the increasingly crowded and contested space domain.
For the Space Force, the stakes are high. As global competition in space intensifies, the ability to rapidly develop, deploy, and sustain advanced systems could spell the difference between maintaining superiority and falling behind. The SYD framework, with its focus on unity of command and mission-driven acquisitions, is a bet on the power of organizational agility. Meanwhile, partnerships with firms like Mercury and AV bring technical innovation and speed, vital for staying ahead of emerging threats.
The coming months will be telling as additional Systems Deltas are activated and the first BADGER units are fielded. Both initiatives will be watched closely—not just by military insiders, but by allies and adversaries alike. The message from the Space Force is clear: the United States is determined to lead in space, both organizationally and technologically, and it’s willing to adapt rapidly to ensure that lead endures.
As the dust settles from the August 20 announcements, one thing is certain: the future of space operations is being shaped now, on the ground and in orbit, through a blend of smart organization and cutting-edge technology.
