U.S. Space Force Trainees to Debut New Dress Uniform at Graduation

A group of trainees from the U.S. Space Force will be the first to wear the service’s new dress uniform at their graduation ceremony on December 18, 2023. This marks a significant moment for the Space Force, as the new uniform represents the culmination of four years of development, which included feedback from service members and extensive testing.

Images released by the 37th Training Wing on November 19 show the trainees at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in Texas during a fitting for their new attire. The uniform features a dark blue jacket adorned with diagonal silver buttons, complemented by a matching tie, gray trousers, and a colored shirt.

Design and Implementation Timeline

The design process for the new dress uniform has been driven by the need to create a distinct identity for Space Force personnel, known as “guardians.” Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman emphasized the importance of the uniform in reflecting the unity and mission of the Space Force. In a statement, he noted, “Our service dress uniform represents the unique identity of guardians, blending heritage with a modern design that reflects our unity and mission. From the start, guardian feedback shaped its design and fit. I know the force will wear it with pride.”

The rollout of the new uniform is scheduled to begin in late 2025 and will continue into 2026. Initial orders will be available to select groups, including recruiters and training instructors. According to the Space Force, guardians stationed in the national capital region will receive their uniforms by mid-December 2023.

While guardians are not yet required to order the new uniform, a mandatory-wear date will be established once it becomes fully available. Those stationed near military clothing sales stores can place orders between November and December 2023, with expected delivery by June 2026. For service members without access to these stores, online ordering will be available starting January 2026, also with a June 2026 delivery date.

Focus on Guardians’ Needs

According to Chief Master Sergeant John Bentivegna, the phased approach to the uniform’s rollout prioritizes the needs of the guardians. This strategy aims to proactively address potential production and distribution challenges while ensuring that guardians have sufficient time to obtain the new uniform. “Our guardians are our top priority, and this phased approach reflects that,” he stated.

The Space Force has committed to providing guardians with at least 12 months’ notice to order the uniform and prepare for the mandatory-wear date, ensuring a smooth transition to the new attire. As the Space Force continues to evolve, the introduction of this uniform symbolizes a step towards establishing a unique identity for its members.