VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The 30th Space Wing inactivated the 30th Launch Group during a ceremony here July 20, merging their range responsibilities and personnel with the 30th Operations Group. The newly combined group will be led by Col. Curtis Hernandez, 30th OG commander.
“Since its inception, the 30th LCG helped launch a total of 60 spacecraft and test vehicles into orbit, managed facilities worth over $3.9 billion, and executed over $47 million in acquisitions,” said Col. Michael Hough, 30th SW commander. “We were given the task by Air Force Space Command to restructure to become more streamlined and efficient.”
The inactivation and merging of groups consolidates mission assurance, critical launch resources and mission integration with the control and direction of range resources in support of space launches, missile test launches and aeronautical and space surveillance operations.
“Although the launch group is deactivating today, the critical mission which it was entrusted to perform will not change,” said Hough. “The transition from the launch group to the operations group will not diminish the selfless, professional, high caliber technical work I have seen from the 1st Air and Space Test Squadron and the 4th Space Launch Squadron. Both squadrons will continue to exceed expectations and accomplish amazing things in the future.”
The Operations Group will continue to operate and maintain base communication systems and provide direct support for mission assurance and range operations responsibilities from the inactivated launch group.
“It’s a privilege to lead this consolidated group to ensure both range support and mission assurance operations are coordinated to deploy the critical satellite payloads that support our national interests,” said Hernandez. “I am honored to serve as the commander for the group and look forward to playing a part in the future of this outstanding organization.”