For the past two years, space cyber operations training and testing were conducted by the 11th Delta Operations Squadron/S9. The establishment of the 33rd RGS transitions this mission to a dedicated unit, tasked with providing a cyber aggressor force and interconnected, scalable range environments. These capabilities are aimed at sharpening joint warfighting solutions and improving readiness for space and cyber operations.
The 33rd RGS now oversees cyber operational test and training infrastructure, a system of cyber ranges that supports advanced testing, training, and interagency collaboration across air, space, and cyberspace. The unit will manage and operate range environments tailored to Space Force cyber squadrons. This activation aligns with Space Force leadership’s strategic focus on expanding training and testing infrastructure to counter emerging threats effectively.
During the activation ceremony, Col. Jay Steingold, commander of Space Delta 11, highlighted the squadron’s critical role in preparing Cyber Guardians for increasingly complex battlespaces. “The 33rd will now fill a unique role by setting the arena for our Cyber Guardians,” Steingold said, emphasising the importance of realistic mission scenarios to sharpen skills and enhance defensive capabilities for space systems.
Lt. Col. Brandon Wilson was named the first commander of the 33rd RGS, with Steingold ceremoniously passing the guidon to him. In his inaugural address, Wilson underlined the gravity of the squadron’s mission, stating, “What we do directly impacts the safety of our nation, the freedoms we cherish, and the way of life we aim to protect.” He affirmed his commitment to building environments and skills that would empower Guardians to meet future challenges with confidence.
As part of the ceremony, Wilson unveiled the squadron’s new patch, featuring a Steller’s jay. This bird, known for its intelligence, adaptability, and fierce territorial defence, symbolises the squadron’s mission to secure critical cyber and space assets with precision and vigilance. The 33rd RGS is poised to play a crucial role in enhancing Guardian training and tactics, ensuring the US maintains a competitive edge in space and cyberspace operations.
Col. Steingold concluded the event by reiterating Space Delta 11’s priority to provide challenging environments and adaptive adversaries for Guardians. “The bottom line is that our delta’s top priority is to provide the venues and thinking adversaries our Guardians require,” he said, underscoring the importance of operational readiness in an era of evolving threats.
