U.S. Space Force Trainees Unveil New Dress Uniform at Graduation

A group of U.S. Space Force trainees is set to make history as they become the first basic military training class to wear the service’s new dress uniform during their graduation ceremony on December 18, 2023. This momentous occasion will take place at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in Texas, where the trainees recently participated in a fitting for their new attire.

Images released by the 37th Training Wing showcase the trainees donning the new uniform for the first time during a fitting on November 19. The design of the dress uniform, which has undergone four years of development, reflects both the heritage and modern identity of the Space Force.

The new uniform features a dark blue jacket adorned with diagonal silver buttons that extend to the service member’s right shoulder. It is complemented by a matching tie, gray pants, and a colored shirt. According to Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman, this uniform has been shaped by feedback from service members throughout the design process. He stated, “Our service dress uniform represents the unique identity of guardians, blending heritage with a modern design that reflects our unity and mission.”

Phased Rollout of the New Dress Uniform

The rollout of the new dress uniform is set to begin in late 2025 and extend into 2026. Initially, select groups such as recruiters and training instructors will have the opportunity to order the uniform. Guardians stationed in the national capital region are expected to receive theirs by mid-December. Although guardians are not required to order the new uniform immediately, a mandatory-wear date will be established once the uniform becomes fully available to all service members.

The Space Force has indicated that guardians stationed near military clothing sales stores can place orders for their uniforms between November and December 2023, with delivery expected by June 2026. For those without access to a store, online ordering will be available starting in January 2026, also with a delivery target of June of that year.

Prioritizing Service Members’ Needs

Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force John Bentivegna emphasized the importance of this phased approach, stating, “Our guardians are our top priority, and this reflects that. It allows us to proactively address potential challenges in production and distribution while also providing guardians with ample time to acquire the new uniform.”

The Space Force plans to provide guardians with at least 12 months notice before the mandatory-wear date is established, ensuring that all service members are adequately prepared for the transition to the new uniform. This careful planning reflects the commitment to maintaining a unified and professional appearance among guardians while honoring their unique identity within the military landscape.