VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- U.S. Space Force leaders hosted the first Vandenberg Mission Update speaker series at the Dick DeWees Community and Senior Center in Lompoc, Calif., Feb. 20, 2026, to share information about increased launch activity from Vandenberg Space Force Base. The event gave community members an opportunity to hear directly from Space Force leaders about the base’s mission, future growth, and its expanding role in national security space operations.
During the briefing, leaders explained that Vandenberg supports more than 54 mission partners and serves as a key location for the command and control of space assets operating globally and on orbit. Presenters discussed how missions launched and managed from Vandenberg support everyday services such as GPS navigation, weather forecasting, communications, and missile warning, while also protecting U.S. and allied interests in space.
The Mission Update also focused on transparency and community awareness as launch activity continues to increase. By answering questions and explaining safety, environmental monitoring, and noise reduction efforts, Space Force leaders reinforced their commitment to open communication and trust with the local community. The Speaker Series supports ongoing dialogue as Vandenberg continues to grow as a critical hub for national security space missions.