PastIn Person

Space Threats and Acquisition Forum

by National Security Space Association

The Space Threats and Acquisition Forum is a premier classified event organized by the National Security Space Association (NSSA). This forum serves as a vital platform for fostering collaboration between the U.S. Government and the private sector, focusing on evolving foreign space and counterspace threats, as well as critical space system acquisitions. The event is scheduled for June 10-11, 2026, at Lockheed Martin's facility in Herndon, Virginia.

The forum's agenda includes a series of keynote addresses and panel discussions featuring prominent figures from the intelligence community, defense acquisition experts, and industry leaders. Topics encompass the latest advancements in space threats targeting U.S. assets, strategies for enhancing space system resilience, and insights into the U.S. Space Force's modernization plans. Notable speakers include Brigadier General Nikki Frankino, Legislative Liaison for the U.S. Space Force, and Brigadier General Nathan Rusin, Director of Intelligence for U.S. Space Command.

Attendees will have opportunities to engage with key decision-makers during networking sessions and receptions. A networking reception is planned for the evening of June 10 at Wellington’s Lounge, located within the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles. This setting provides a relaxed environment for professionals to discuss insights and forge new partnerships.

This forum is particularly beneficial for professionals in the defense, aerospace, and national security sectors. It offers a unique opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the challenges and strategies shaping the future of military space operations, making it invaluable for those involved in space system development, policy-making, and strategic planning.

Speakers(15)

CMSgt Ron Lerch

Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Intelligence at USSF

CMSgt Ron Lerch serves as the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Intelligence in the United States Space Force.

Carolyn 'Kit' Thomson

Principal Deputy, Defense Intelligence Officer for Space and Counterspace at Defense Intelligence Agency

Carolyn 'Kit' Thomson serves as the Principal Deputy Defense Intelligence Officer for Space and Counterspace at the Defense Intelligence Agency.

Chris Williams

Chair, NSSA's Moorman Center for Space Studies at NSSA

Chris Williams is the Chair of the National Security Space Association's Moorman Center for Space Studies.

Clint Clark

Chief Growth Officer & VP of First Impressions at ExoAnalytic Solutions

Clint Clark is the Chief Growth Officer and Vice President of First Impressions at ExoAnalytic Solutions.

Col (ret.) Dean Bellamy

Executive Vice President, National Security Space at Redwire

Col (ret.) Dean Bellamy is the Executive Vice President for National Security Space at Redwire.

Dawn Meyerriecks

Former Deputy Director for Science and Technology at Central Intelligence Agency

Dawn Meyerriecks is the former Deputy Director for Science and Technology at the Central Intelligence Agency.

Dr. Andrew Palowitch

Chief Systems Engineer, USSF Space Systems Command Combat Power PEO at USSF

Dr. Andrew Palowitch is the Chief Systems Engineer for the U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command Combat Power Program Executive Office.

Dr. Darren McKnight

Senior Technical Fellow at LeoLabs

Dr. Darren McKnight is a Senior Technical Fellow at LeoLabs.

Dr. John Stopher

Consultant; Former Principal Assistant to the U.S. Secretary of the Air Force for Space at Independent

Dr. John Stopher is a consultant and former Principal Assistant to the U.S. Secretary of the Air Force for Space.

Dr. Kelly Hammett

Director and Program Executive Officer (PEO), Space Rapid Capabilities Office at USSF

Dr. Kelly Hammett is the Director and Program Executive Officer for the Space Rapid Capabilities Office in the United States Space Force.

Event Details

Date
June 18, 2025
Location
🇺🇸 Herndon, United States
Lockheed Martin, Herndon, VA
Pricing
$899 - $999
Audience
Defense, aerospace, and national security professionals
CLE Credits
CLE accreditation pending
Attendees
Not specified