Frank Calvelli was sworn in as Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration during a Pentagon ceremony May 5, following his confirmation to the role by the U.S. Senate, April 28.

Prior to his confirmation, Calvelli worked at the National Reconnaissance Office and within industry. In this new role, he becomes the first service acquisition executive for space and serves as the senior acquisition executive for space programs within the Department of the Air Force.

“Congratulations to Frank on his long-awaited Senate confirmation and we are fortunate to welcome him to the Department of the Air Force team,” said Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall. “Frank’s in-depth experience, knowledge and leadership will be invaluable to acquiring the transformational space-based systems we need to stay ahead of our pacing challenges, and in ensuring the U.S. Space Force meets its obligations as the great enabler and protector of the Joint Force.”

Calvelli’s priorities in his new role will revolve around enhancing the Department’s speed and collaboration in developing systems for the U.S. Space Force, while also synchronizing efforts across the Department of Defense and with broader government and international partners, to get new capabilities into the hands of warfighters.