Space Forces Europe and Africa changes command

U.S. Space Force Brig. Gen. Christopher A. Fernengel assumed command of U.S. Space Forces in Europe – Space Forces Africa during a change of command ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, on Aug. 10, 2026.

SPACEFOREUR-AF is the Space Force component responsible for integrating space capabilities in support of U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command, supporting operations across 51 countries in Europe and 53 countries in Africa.

“Space is inherently joint, interagency, and multinational,” said U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich. “It holds the connective tissue that binds our joint force together and helps us take apart that of any adversary.”

Officials said the component expanded to more than three times its original size under outgoing commander Brig. Gen. Jacob Middleton.

“The rise of space and cyber have demanded the need for multidomain operations, which requires new command and control, new capabilities and a different way of thinking about it,” said U.S. Air Force Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson. “The U.S. remains the gold standard for space operations.”

U.S. Space Force Lt. Gen. Dennis O. Bythewood also emphasized the breadth of the mission. “The Space Forces Europe and Africa mission is broader than probably any Space Force component that we have,” Bythewood said. “It requires a steadfast leadership that is out there day in and day out, pounding the pavement, making connections, and making sure that we’re driving the integration necessary for space forces to be effective.”

Fernengel previously commanded the 4th Space Control Squadron and Space Delta 3, leading units focused on space electronic warfare and electromagnetic warfare operations. Most recently, he served as the director of Plans and Programs in the Office of the Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Strategy, Plans, Programs and Requirements at Headquarters U.S. Space Force.

Fernengel said the command must continue adapting while maintaining strong partnerships and developing its growing force. “The adversary is watching, and we need to adapt,” Fernengel said. “The shifting geopolitical landscape, a seemingly increased cooperation among competitors, as well as technology advancements, will require us to evolve as we navigate an ever-changing operational environment.”

Fernengel succeeds Middleton, who is set to retire this fall after 34 years of military service, a tenure that included significant growth of the component and expanded operational capabilities across the European and African theaters.