Surprise Move Impacts Space Acquisition Leadership Amid Budget Expectations
In a surprise move, Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy has been shifted from leading the space acquisition shop at the Department of the Air Force to serve as senior advisor to Secretary Troy Meink. The reason for the move was not disclosed. Purdy had announced his step down from the role on January 22, and the Air Force has tapped Tom Ainsworth to perform the duties of the assistant secretary at SAF/SQ, with Brig. Gen. Panzenhagen taking on the role of military deputy. The shift comes as senior Space Force leaders expect a significant budget boost for fiscal 2027 and face the challenge of integrating various service programs for the creation of the Golden Dome missile shield. This development was first reported by Breaking Defense.