# Private pilots fly orbital missions for US Space Force

Commercial space pilots are now conducting orbital missions directly for the US Space Force, marking a deeper integration of private-sector spaceflight with military operations. This collaboration expands the military's access to orbital capabilities while testing commercial vehicles for defense applications. The trend signals a growing reliance on private companies for national security space missions.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### Technology
- [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2026/07/02/private-space-pilots-are-flying-orbital-missions-for-the-us-space-force/) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 23:01:06 +0000