Space Forces-Southern conducts first human performance assessment at Davis-Monthan

Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. — Guardians assigned to Space Forces – Southern completed their first Human Performance Assessment on April 23, 2026, marking the unit’s inaugural evaluation since its activation on Dec. 1, 2025, and the first such event held at the installation. The assessment emphasized physical and mental readiness while signaling a shift toward a more continuous, holistic approach to fitness in support of a mission-ready force within U.S. Southern Command.

“The activation of Space Forces – Southern at Davis-Monthan on Dec. 1, 2025, marked a starting point for the future we’re building together. As we expand our work across the USSOUTHCOM region, our focus is on unlocking human potential, fostering resilience and continuously raising the bar for performance,” said Col. Brandon Alford, Space Forces – Southern commander. “Guided by a shared commitment to growth and accountability, we’re creating an environment where people are empowered to do their best work. Our first HPA is an early signal of that momentum, showing a team that’s proactive, adaptable and committed to improving every day.”

Organized by the unit’s fitness team, the assessment was designed to measure overall performance rather than just baseline standards and included push-ups, sit-ups and a 2-mile run. It serves as the Space Force’s counterpart to the Air Force Fitness Assessment.

“We operate in a complex and rapidly evolving environment that calls for clear thinking, adaptability and sustained performance. Recent guidance from leadership reinforces a shared priority: being fully prepared for what’s ahead by investing in both mental and physical well-being,” Alford said. “This HPA isn’t just a checkpoint, it’s a reflection of our commitment to continuous growth, accountability and collective strength. It signals a team focused on building capability, supporting one another and showing up ready to meet challenges with confidence.”

“Executing the first HPA at Davis-Monthan sets a historic milestone for Space Forces – Southern and the installation. Our Guardians triumphed over demanding physical requirements, demonstrating a commitment to continuous, holistic health rather than just a point-in-time evaluation,” said Maj. Ryan Vath, Space Forces – Southern Unit Fitness Cell leader. “Seeing them successfully navigate this assessment validates that we are prepared for the challenges ahead and ready to achieve lethality alongside the joint force.”

The event marked an early but significant milestone in the unit’s activation history and reflects ongoing efforts to build a lasting culture of readiness, resilience and sustained performance in support of joint operations across the region.