Los Angeles Air Force Base is the only active duty military installation in the greater Los Angeles area. You’ll find it in El Segundo, just two miles from LAX.
Space Systems Command calls this place home, and the base now operates under the name Space Base Delta 3.
You’ll find Los Angeles Air Force Base right in El Segundo, California. It’s basically at the heart of the aerospace corridor.
The base doesn’t have a flightline. Instead, it runs administrative and technical operations from several buildings.
El Segundo is a sweet spot for space work. Tons of aerospace contractors are nearby, and the city sits in Southern California’s defense industry hub.
The facilities here used to be part of the Douglas Aircraft manufacturing complex. So, the area’s got a real legacy of aerospace innovation.
More than 7,000 military and civilian folks work on base. That’s a lot of people.
The base manages about $1 billion in assets and has an annual budget of $61.4 million.
Officially, it’s Los Angeles Air Force Base, but Space Force now runs the show. Space Base Delta 3 replaced the old Air Force structure as the host unit.
Back in September 1987, the base changed from Los Angeles Air Force Station to Los Angeles Air Force Base. That shift marked its bigger role in military space operations.
Space Systems Command is the main tenant here. SSC oversees a $15 billion space acquisition budget and about 15,000 people at 16 sites across the country.
You’ll also find the 61st Medical Squadron, 61st Civil Engineer and Logistics Squadron, and 61st Security Forces Squadron here. These units keep base operations and support services running.
LAX sits just two miles north. That’s both convenient and a little tricky.
The base sits in some of the busiest airspace in the U.S. Military personnel and contractors can easily fly in from anywhere.
Commercial flights connect right into the space industry’s main hub via LAX. That’s huge for logistics.
Airspace coordination between the base and LAX takes careful planning. Even though the base doesn’t have flight ops, being so close to a major airport means security and access protocols get pretty strict.
El Segundo’s location benefits from LAX’s transportation network. Highways, rail, and airport shuttles all make getting to the base pretty straightforward.
Los Angeles Air Force Base acts as the main acquisition and development hub for key space systems. Space Systems Command runs research and procurement here, working on military space tech that keeps American interests safe in orbit.
Los Angeles Air Force Base stands as the top acquisition center for the United States Space Force. From this facility, Space Systems Command develops and fields space capabilities supporting military operations worldwide.
The base manages crucial satellite programs. GPS navigation and communication networks that troops rely on every day come from here.
Space-based missile warning systems also fall under the base’s watch.
Engineers here focus on next-generation space tech. They work on advanced satellite designs and defense systems.
The location lets them tap into the region’s huge pool of aerospace contractors. That’s a big advantage.
The base works with commercial space companies too. These partnerships speed up tech development and keep costs down.
Private sector innovation helps the Space Force stay ahead in space operations.
Space Systems Command works directly with the Department of Defense. Joint planning and coordination are part of daily life here.
The command supports all military branches by providing space-based capabilities that boost combat effectiveness.
Satellite communication systems managed at the base connect military units worldwide. These networks enable secure communications for ground forces, ships, and aircraft.
Real-time data transmission helps leaders make decisions in combat zones.
The facility also coordinates with other military space sites. Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado and Cape Canaveral in Florida team up on launch ops and mission control.
Acquisition teams here handle budget allocations for space programs. They review contractor proposals and manage massive programs worth billions.
They focus on getting the most capability for every dollar spent.
The base supports national defense through space domain awareness programs. These efforts track objects in orbit and flag potential threats to American satellites.
Counter-space capabilities developed here protect critical space assets. Defensive systems shield satellites from electronic attacks.
Backup systems keep things running if primary satellites get jammed or damaged.
The base also pushes missile defense technologies. Early warning satellites spot ballistic missile launches in seconds, giving defenders valuable time.
International cooperation happens here too. Allied nations share space surveillance data and coordinate satellite operations.
These partnerships boost everyone’s defense capabilities and help cut costs for each country involved.
Space Systems Command runs the show when it comes to military space assets. From Los Angeles Air Force Base, SSC manages a $15 billion acquisition budget and oversees everything from satellite constellation development to launch operations at 16 sites across the country.
Space Systems Command acts as the Space Force’s field command for space development, acquisition, launch ops, and logistics. The organization’s all about delivering resilient, affordable space capabilities to the military.
SSC develops and acquires new space tech to protect American interests far above Earth. The command handles every step of military space systems, from first idea to operational deployment.
Launch operations are a big part of SSC’s job. The command manages several space launch ranges across the U.S., coordinating missions that send military satellites into orbit.
Once spacecraft are up there, SSC teams monitor them during on-orbit checkout and testing. They make sure everything works as it should.
SSC also takes care of existing satellite constellations. That means software updates, system monitoring, and planning for replacements when satellites reach the end of their life.
SSC handles one of the world’s largest space acquisition budgets—$15 billion a year. That’s a lot to work with.
The command focuses on building resilient space capabilities for military operations. These systems have to withstand threats and keep communication, navigation, and surveillance running smoothly.
Acquisition programs cover communication satellites, GPS upgrades, missile warning systems, and space situational awareness platforms. Each one goes through tough testing and evaluation.
SSC teams up with commercial space companies and traditional defense contractors. This mix brings together fresh ideas and proven reliability.
Their acquisition strategy pushes for fast deployment of new tech. Teams try to cut development times while keeping quality and security high.
Space Systems Command employs around 15,000 people at 16 separate units nationwide. Headquarters at Los Angeles Air Force Base keeps everything coordinated.
The command has specialized divisions for different tech areas. Some focus on satellite communications, others on launch systems or ground support.
Regional offices manage local contractor relationships and oversee area-specific programs. This setup lets SSC take advantage of expertise from aerospace hubs all over the country.
Technical centers within SSC handle engineering and testing. These facilities check out new tech and run integration tests before rolling things out on a larger scale.
The command works closely with other Space Force units and military branches. Regular communication ensures that new space capabilities meet everyone’s needs.
Space Base Delta 3 acts as the garrison command for Los Angeles Air Force Base. Specialized squadrons handle everything from infrastructure to support services.
The base provides medical care, security, and resilience programs for more than 7,000 people.
Space Base Delta 3 runs as the host installation unit at Los Angeles Air Force Base. They provide the essential garrison services that keep things moving for Space Systems Command.
SBD 3 manages daily operations for the base’s 7,000-plus personnel. The unit oversees $1 billion in physical assets.
Their annual operating budget sits at $61.4 million for maintaining facilities and services.
The base delta structure matches Space Force standards. This new design replaced the old Air Force model when the base joined Space Force.
SBD 3 works with 11 staff agencies to deliver full base support. Their reach even extends to geographically separated units and other military branches in the LA area.
The 61st Medical Squadron provides healthcare for base personnel and their families. They handle routine care, emergencies, and specialized treatments for space operations staff.
The 61st Security Forces Squadron keeps the base secure. Security teams control access, patrol the grounds, and respond to emergencies.
They protect sensitive tech and classified operations.
The 61st Civil Engineer and Logistics Squadron takes care of facility maintenance and construction. Engineers keep buildings, utility systems, and infrastructure in shape.
They also manage supply chains and equipment upkeep.
The 61st Communications Squadron runs the network and communications infrastructure. Tech specialists keep secure comms up for missions and daily business.
The 61st Force Support Squadron handles personnel services, dining, and recreational programs. They manage HR and quality of life services for base families.
Space Base Delta 3 keeps strong mental health and resilience programs for everyone on base. These programs help with the unique stress of space ops and military life.
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) programs offer support. Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARC) provide confidential help and work with law enforcement when needed.
Mental health pros offer counseling and stress management. They help people deal with deployment stress, family separation, and the pressures of space missions.
Family support services include childcare, spouse job help, and educational programs. These resources help keep the whole community ready.
Fitness and wellness programs keep personnel in shape. Medical staff track fitness standards for space duties and offer specialized health checks.
Los Angeles Space Force Base keeps tight security protocols in place through the 61st Security Forces Squadron. Every visitor has to meet federal ID requirements and pass through controlled entry points.
Anyone coming onto Los Angeles Space Force Base needs a valid federal ID that meets current security standards. You’ll need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID card.
Active duty military members use their Common Access Card (CAC). Department of Defense employees show their official credentials plus photo ID.
Foreign nationals need extra documentation, like a passport and sponsor verification. The base won’t accept expired ID, period.
Acceptable Forms of ID:
Visitors should double-check their ID before coming. If your documents don’t meet federal standards, you won’t get in.
The Visitor Control Center stands as the main entry for anyone who isn’t military, and it’s the first stop for all non-military folks coming onto the installation.
Visitors need to finish registration before they get access to the base.
Sponsors have to send in visitor requests through official channels, and they need to do it at least 24 hours ahead of time.
The system asks for personal info—full name, birthday, and why you’re visiting.
When visitors arrive, they check in at the main gate security checkpoint.
Security staff check IDs against the approved visitor list and, if needed, inspect vehicles.
Standard Processing Steps:
Security might search your car, including the trunk and inside.
Certain base areas don’t allow electronic devices.
The 61st Security Forces Squadron handles security, using both military and Department of the Air Force civilian police officers.
Security Forces keep the control center in Building 272 running around the clock.
Base emergency services answer calls through the 116 emergency number or regular 911.
The Security Forces Control Center stays open 24/7 and coordinates all emergency responses—fire, medical, law enforcement, you name it.
They run random security checks throughout the base.
Unescorted visitors have to stay in designated areas and show their ID badges at all times.
Security cameras keep watch over all entry points and critical spots.
Armed patrols sweep the perimeter and sensitive locations regularly.
Key Security Features:
If someone breaks security rules, security escorts them off base right away and they might face legal trouble.
Los Angeles Space Force Base delivers healthcare through the 61st Medical Squadron and offers strong mental health support programs.
Personnel and their families get primary care, help during emergencies, and access to resilience programs built for military readiness.
The 61st Medical Squadron serves as the main healthcare provider for all military branches and families in greater Los Angeles.
You’ll find the clinic in Building 210, right inside the main gate—the only active duty installation in LA County.
The squadron runs Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
You can schedule an appointment by calling (310) 653-2873 or the main number (310) 653-CURE (2873).
Key Services Available:
They also run a satellite clinic at Fort MacArthur military housing in San Pedro.
That location helps families living in base housing about 20 miles south of the main base.
For emergencies, the base coordinates with local civilian hospitals since neither clinic handles emergency services.
Everyone needs to keep their TRICARE West region enrollment up to date for coverage.
The base puts a lot of focus on mental health, offering several specialized programs and support staff.
The Chaplain Corps Office in Building 272 gives pastoral care, counseling services, and daily ministry support for military members and DoD employees.
Chaplains provide confidential counseling, crisis intervention, and spiritual advice.
They team up with other support services to help with personal and family challenges that could affect mission readiness.
The base keeps Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) resources on hand, with trained Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARC) available 24/7.
These professionals offer immediate crisis help and arrange long-term care for those who need it.
Mental Health Resources Include:
Recently, the 61st Medical Squadron rolled out new mental health programs with fresh approaches to military mental wellness.
These efforts aim to help Space Force personnel and their families deal with the unique stress of living and working in the Los Angeles area.
Los Angeles Space Force Base covers 113 acres in El Segundo, supporting over 7,000 military personnel and their families.
The base has modern dining, retail shops, and offices that keep Space Systems Command headquarters running.
The base commissary serves all eligible personnel at Los Angeles Space Force Base, plus retirees from every military branch in the LA area.
Military families shop for groceries and household goods at discounted prices in this key facility.
The Base Exchange offers tax-free shopping for electronics, clothing, and personal items.
These retail choices really help military families manage their budgets in pricey Los Angeles.
At the commissary, you’ll find fresh produce, meat, and packaged food at prices lower than most civilian stores.
Active duty Space Force personnel and their dependents can shop at both the commissary and the exchange.
You’ll find several dining spots across the 52 developed acres of the base.
The main dining hall serves three meals a day to fit different work shifts in Space Systems Command.
Recreation centers include a fitness facility that stays open on family days when most other services close.
The base offers tennis courts and recreational areas for off-duty personnel and families.
Arts and crafts facilities give military families creative ways to unwind.
You can take classes or use the workspace for pottery, woodworking, and other hobbies—usually at lower costs than off-base options.
The Community Center hosts social events and provides meeting rooms for military organizations.
Outdoor Recreation services handle activities and rent out equipment for anyone exploring Southern California.
The base helps military families with housing through on-base and off-base support.
Because the installation is pretty compact, on-base housing is limited, so many folks live in nearby communities.
Family support includes childcare and spouse employment help.
The base works with local schools to make sure military kids get a solid education while their parents serve at this Space Force hub.
Medical care comes through the 61st Medical Squadron, which covers healthcare for active duty members and dependents.
Emergency and routine health services help keep the force ready for space missions.
The legal office at Los Angeles Space Force Base handles wills, power of attorney, and contract reviews for military personnel.
These services come in handy for Space Force members heading to remote posts or dealing with unusual assignments.
Financial counseling helps families manage money in the expensive LA area.
Advisors work with budgeting, debt, and investment planning that matches military pay and benefits.
During tax season, the base offers tax prep services to help with the tricky rules around military taxes.
Legal and financial teams work together to make sure Space Force members keep the right paperwork for security clearances and space assignments.
Los Angeles Air Force Base operates under Space Systems Command.
Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant leads as commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Jacqueline Sauvé acts as the senior enlisted leader.
The base hosts Space Base Delta 3 as the main installation and serves as headquarters for Space Systems Command’s field operations.
Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant took command of Space Systems Command at Los Angeles Air Force Base in February 2024.
He’s the second person to lead SSC.
Chief Master Sgt. Jacqueline Sauvé works as the Senior Enlisted Leader for Space Systems Command.
She partners with Garrant to oversee the command’s global workforce.
The command structure is pretty straightforward.
SSC reports straight to the Chief of Space Operations at the Pentagon, currently Gen. Chance Saltzman.
Garrant rolled out his command plan in October 2024.
He’s focusing on delivering combat-ready capabilities, building a strong workplace culture, and modernizing command operations.
Leadership values direct communication with personnel.
Garrant hosts regular “Ask Me Anything” sessions so leadership and the workforce can actually talk to each other.
Space Systems Command runs as the main field command at Los Angeles Air Force Base.
SSC replaced the Space and Missile Systems Center in summer 2021.
Space Base Delta 3 manages daily base operations and support services for the host installation.
SBD3 takes care of facilities, security, and infrastructure.
SSC handles space system development and acquisition.
They coordinate with contractors and industry partners, focusing on rapid prototyping and fielding new space tech.
The command oversees different program offices, each managing specific spacecraft and satellite programs.
SSC teams up with other Space Force commands too.
They work closely with Space Operations Command at Peterson Space Force Base to share responsibilities for space missions.
Space Systems Command employs a global team of military, civilian, and contractor staff.
Numbers shift depending on mission needs and program demands.
Military personnel include Space Force Guardians and Air Force members.
Officers and enlisted folks fill leadership and technical roles, manage programs, and keep operations moving.
Civilian employees bring specialized skills in engineering, acquisition, and admin work.
A lot of them have decades of experience in space systems.
Contractors help with major programs and technical projects.
Private companies handle spacecraft development, testing, and maintenance.
The workforce isn’t just in Los Angeles—people work at sites all over the country.
They coordinate global space mission requirements.
SSC puts a lot of effort into developing and keeping talent.
Leadership focuses on recruiting great people and offers training and career growth for everyone.
Los Angeles Air Force Base keeps communication open through its Space Systems Command Public Affairs Office.
This office handles media requests and community engagement.
The base puts out official news about space operations and highlights achievements with regular announcements.
The Space Systems Command Public Affairs Office at Los Angeles Air Force Base is the go-to for official communications.
Media reps can call (310) 653-3145 for press and info requests.
Contact Information:
The base puts out news on space acquisition programs, leadership visits, and big operational milestones.
Recent updates have included strategic satellite communications contracts and briefings on new space capabilities.
Major Brittany Curry currently directs Space Systems Command Public Affairs operations.
She organizes media events and helps leadership connect with the press.
Visuals matter a lot for the base’s communication efforts.
Media pros can use the PA Productivity Portal to set up photo appointments and request content for stories.
Official photographers capture military ceremonies, equipment demos, and facility tours.
These images support news releases and give people a look at space-related operations.
The base has strict rules for photography because of security.
All photo requests need approval before anyone gets access.
Video content includes briefings, leadership interviews, and footage of space operations.
These materials help explain complex missions to the public.
At Los Angeles Air Force Base, folks get involved with local groups through a bunch of outreach programs. The Defense Orientation Conference Association teams up with the base, donating to the Airman & Family Readiness Center to support military families.
Community events give civilian groups a chance to see what Space Systems Command does up close. These programs really help people understand the military’s space mission and make it easier to connect with local stakeholders.
When community leaders and defense industry reps visit, the base hosts educational sessions. These briefings touch on current space threats and show how the command fits into national security.
Outreach also means recognizing people. The monthly “Knight of the Month” awards spotlight standout service members and civilian employees from all parts of the base.
Los Angeles Space Force Base started out as a small Air Force research division back in 1954. Over time, it grew into the main military space systems headquarters in the U.S.
The installation went through a series of redesignations and expansions before it became the Space Force’s main command center on the West Coast.
On July 1, 1954, the base opened as the Western Development Division in Inglewood, California. This Air Research and Development Command unit worked on early missile and space technology projects during the Cold War.
In the early 1960s, the division moved to its spot at Aviation and El Segundo Boulevards. Officials named the property Los Angeles Air Force Station in 1964, making it an official military installation.
The facility took over buildings at the south end of the old Douglas Aircraft plant. That location gave the base access to aerospace infrastructure and a workforce full of commercial aviation pros.
The Space and Missile Systems Center set up shop as the main tenant. Its mission shifted from basic missile work to handling military space system acquisition and management.
In 1987, Los Angeles Air Force Station got a new name: Los Angeles Air Force Base. The change really showed how much the installation mattered to military space operations.
Key Organizational Changes:
After the Space Force became its own branch, it took over the base’s main missions. Space Systems Command replaced the old Space and Missile Systems Center on August 13, 2021.
Now, the base acts as headquarters for Space Base Delta 3, which runs all base operations. This setup supports both the Space Force’s missions and the base’s day-to-day needs.
Los Angeles Space Force Base stands as the only active duty military installation in the greater Los Angeles area. You’ll find it just two miles south of LAX in El Segundo.
The installation brings federal aerospace jobs to the South Bay. Engineers, program managers, and support staff work on satellite development and space system programs.
The base partners with local aerospace companies and contractors. These relationships help the military space mission and boost the region’s defense industry.
El Segundo benefits from military and civilian employees who live, shop, and spend time in the community. The base’s mission draws highly skilled workers to the area.
Los Angeles Space Force Base keeps up strong partnerships with universities, aerospace companies, and local groups to push space capabilities forward. The base gets involved with the Southern California community through educational programs and joint projects.
The Space Force works with regional institutions to boost space technology development. In 2024, the University of Southern California officially joined the University Partnership Program, opening up new research opportunities.
This partnership connects Space Force members with USC students and faculty. Air and Space Force ROTC cadets often visit to learn about space missions and career paths.
The base also works with Southern California’s aerospace industry through the Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC). This group brings together traditional defense contractors, small businesses, and academic institutions.
SpEC focuses on three areas:
The consortium helps the Space Force build prototypes faster by linking government teams with commercial partners.
Los Angeles Air Force Base is the only active duty military installation in the LA area. The base puts on educational events for local schools and aerospace groups.
The AFCEA Los Angeles chapter supports the Space Systems Command and related aerospace activities. This group connects over 2,000 contractors worldwide who work with the base.
Military families live in Tierra Vista Communities, which includes housing at Los Angeles Air Force Base and other Space Force sites. These communities offer resources and support services for personnel.
The base stays active on Facebook and Twitter to share news and updates with locals. Media reps can send questions about Space Force activities through official channels.
People visiting Los Angeles Air Force Base often want to know about lodging, housing, getting around, and job openings. The installation in El Segundo serves as the only active-duty military facility in the greater Los Angeles area.
You need to make reservations ahead of time through the base lodging office for temporary stays at Los Angeles Air Force Base. Military personnel on official orders get priority.
The 61st Force Support Squadron handles all lodging on base. You can call the lodging office directly or use the military lodging system to book a room.
At check-in, visitors show valid military ID and travel orders. Civilian contractors might get a room if there’s space and their mission requires it.
Since space is tight in El Segundo, the base doesn’t have traditional military family housing. Most people live in off-base housing around Los Angeles.
The 61st Force Support Squadron offers housing assistance. This office helps military families find rental properties in nearby communities.
A lot of personnel choose places like Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, or Torrance. The base provides info on local rental markets and housing allowances.
You can get the base directory from the official Los Angeles Air Force Base website or at the visitor control center. The directory lists contact info for all major units and support services.
Space Base Delta 3 keeps the main directory, covering the 61st Medical Squadron, 61st Civil Engineer and Logistics Squadron, and more. Space Systems Command has its own contact listings for its staff.
Visitors can pick up printed directories at the main gate or access digital versions online. Base operators help people find specific offices or personnel.
Los Angeles Air Force Base employs over 7,000 people in military and civilian roles. Space Systems Command usually has openings in space systems development, acquisition, and engineering.
You’ll find jobs in aerospace engineering, program management, and technical support. Civilian job postings show up on USAJobs and military personnel systems.
Contractors also hire for positions at the base. Major defense contractors keep offices on site to support space systems programs.
You can pick up base maps at the visitor control center or find them on the official base websites. The base covers a small area in El Segundo, so getting around isn’t too complicated.
Look for landmarks like the Space Systems Command headquarters and squadron buildings. There’s no flight line, which makes the layout simpler.
When you enter, security gives you directions and lets you know about escort requirements. They’ll help you find your way to specific buildings and parking spots.
Los Angeles Air Force Base is actually the only active-duty military installation you’ll find in the greater Los Angeles metro area. If you’re looking for others, you’ll have to go a bit farther out.
Naval Base Ventura County sits about 60 miles northwest, up in Oxnard and Port Hueneme. They handle support for naval construction forces and a bunch of different tenant commands.
Camp Pendleton is a big Marine Corps base, but it’s roughly 200 miles southeast, down in San Diego County. Edwards Air Force Base sits about 100 miles northeast in the Mojave Desert, where they focus on flight testing.
