Haaland Gets Confirmation that Kirtland Capabilities Put Base on Shortlist for Space Force Research & Development, Also Gets Commitment From Air Force on Environmental Safeguards

Statement

During a House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness hearing this week, Haaland received confirmation that capabilities at Kirtland Air Force Base put it on the shortlist for Space Force research and development. She also received commitment from the Air Force on environmental safeguards. During a tour of Kirtland Air Force Base with House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith last year, Haaland showcased the base's space capabilities.

Haaland is working to make sure New Mexico benefits from an increased investment in the space research and development. Her efforts along with the Congressional delegation aim to bring new good paying jobs to New Mexico, so Kirtland Air Force Base can continue to lead the country in space innovation and bolster new space industries in the state.

During the hearing, Haaland highlighted New Mexico's role as an integral hub for US Space Force science, technology research and development stating, "I will note that my district is home to critical Space Force assets on Kirtland AFB such as the Space and Missile Center Advanced Systems and Development Directorate, Space Rapid Capabilities Office and key Space Force partners like the Air Force Research Labs Space Vehicles and Directed Energy Directorates. Given all those obvious synergies, would I be correct in thinking that bases like Kirtland, with its cutting-edge space capabilities, will be on the shortlist?"

To that question Lt. General Thompson said, "Yes, ma'am -- as you listed there are a tremendous number of Space Force capabilities at Kirtland today. It is national center when it comes to science technology, research and development."

Haaland then switched gears toward climate change and the environment, working on getting a commitment from the Air Force to protect public lands, "I am paying close attention to the Department's proposals that impact public lands that have great environmental value and are key to preserving irreplaceable Native American cultural resources and tribal history."

Haaland followed that line with an ask for incremental implementation of training range expansion to ensure proper environmental stewardship and proper consultation with tribes.

"The short answer is yes, I think we can. We must absolutely work together," General Wilson responded.

Recently, concerns were raised by public lands managers and Tribes about the proposed expansion of the Nevada Training and Testing Range due to its proximity to public lands and sacred sites. Haaland has been working with stakeholders on a solution.

Source