Space Force Names War Machines After Gods & Monsters

The U.S. Space Force is implementing a novel naming scheme for its operational systems, including satellites and cyber tools, to imbue them with recognizable identities. Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman announced that these systems will receive thematic nicknames, drawing inspiration from sources such as the Norse pantheon, mythological creatures, serpents, sharks, sentinels, ghosts, and constellations, each tied to specific mission areas. This strategic shift seeks to provide guardians with clearer cultural anchors and a stronger sense of ownership over their equipment, moving beyond technical designations.

The initiative aligns the Space Force with naming practices found in other military branches, which have historically used evocative names for their assets to enhance clarity and esprit de corps. The chosen categories are designed to be universally accessible and avoid copyright issues. For instance, orbital warfare systems will be named after Norse gods, while cyber warfare tools will adopt names of mythological beasts, ensuring symbolic resonance with their respective functions and operational contexts.

This cultural development is part of a broader effort to solidify the Space Force's distinct identity amidst the growing militarization of space. By giving these sophisticated systems distinct personalities, the service aims to foster a deeper connection among the personnel responsible for their operation. In addition to thematic names, a new alphanumeric designation scheme will standardize classification, complementing the symbolic identities for both new and existing platforms.