What Is 1st Test and Evaluation Squadron

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 1st Test and Evaluation Squadron (1TES) is a United States Air Force unit responsible for operational testing of space and missile systems. It was activated on October 1, 1990, and is assigned to Space Delta 12 under Space Systems Command.

Key Facts

Activated on October 1, 1990, as part of Air Force Systems Command
Currently assigned to Space Delta 12 under Space Systems Command
Headquartered at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida
Responsible for operational testing of space and missile warning systems
Plays a key role in evaluating systems like the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS)

Overview

The 1st Test and Evaluation Squadron (1TES) is a specialized unit within the United States Space Force dedicated to assessing the effectiveness and reliability of space-based systems. Originally established under the U.S. Air Force, it transitioned to the Space Force in 2021 as part of the broader reorganization of military space operations.

1TES focuses on operational test and evaluation (OT&E) of missile warning, satellite communications, and space domain awareness platforms. Its mission ensures that new technologies meet combat requirements before being fielded to operational units.

Established on October 1, 1990, the squadron began under Air Force Systems Command to test emerging space surveillance systems.
It is currently headquartered at Patrick Space Force Base in Florida, serving as a central node for space system evaluations.
The squadron falls under Space Delta 12, which oversees test and evaluation for the Space Force’s developmental programs.
1TES conducts rigorous evaluations of systems such as the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS), which detects ballistic missile launches.
It collaborates with Space Systems Command (SSC) to validate performance under realistic threat scenarios and operational conditions.

How It Works

The 1st Test and Evaluation Squadron follows a structured process to assess space systems before deployment. Testing involves simulations, live-fire exercises, and integration with existing command and control networks to ensure readiness.

Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E): This phase verifies that systems perform as intended in real-world conditions. Tests are conducted under combat-like scenarios to assess reliability and effectiveness.
Missile Warning Systems: 1TES evaluates sensors like those on SBIRS satellites to confirm their ability to detect and track ballistic missile launches globally.
Space Domain Awareness (SDA): The squadron tests systems that track objects in orbit, ensuring accurate identification of potential threats or collisions.
Integrated Testing: Evaluations include how well new systems interface with legacy platforms and joint military networks, such as NORAD command centers.
Data Collection and Analysis: Using advanced telemetry and simulation tools, 1TES gathers performance metrics to inform acquisition decisions by Space Systems Command.
Red Team Assessments: Independent evaluations are conducted to identify vulnerabilities and ensure systems can withstand adversarial countermeasures.

Comparison at a Glance

1TES differs from other test units in mission scope, organizational structure, and technological focus. The table below highlights key distinctions:

Unit	Branch	Primary Mission	Location	Key Systems Tested
1st Test and Evaluation Squadron	U.S. Space Force	Operational testing of space systems	Patrick SFB, FL	SBIRS, GPS III, SDA sensors
445th Test Squadron	U.S. Air Force	Aircraft and weapons testing	Edwards AFB, CA	F-35, B-21, munitions
31st Test and Evaluation Squadron	U.S. Air Force	Space and cyber systems	Beale AFB, CA	Global Positioning System
2nd Test and Evaluation Squadron	U.S. Space Force	Missile warning and tracking	Peterson SFB, CO	Overhead Persistent Infrared
710th Test and Evaluation Squadron	U.S. Space Force	Tactical space operations	Buckley SFB, CO	Space electronic warfare

While all these units perform testing, 1TES is unique in its focus on space-based missile warning and surveillance systems under Space Delta 12. Its evaluations directly influence the fielding of next-generation capabilities critical to national defense.

Why It Matters

The work of 1TES is essential for maintaining U.S. superiority in space operations, particularly as global threats to satellite systems grow. By validating system performance before deployment, the squadron helps prevent costly failures and ensures combat readiness.

Ensures mission reliability of early-warning systems that protect the U.S. and allies from missile attacks.
Supports rapid fielding of next-generation space sensors by identifying design flaws early in development.
Provides critical data to defense acquisition leaders for making informed funding and deployment decisions.
Enhances joint force interoperability by testing how space systems integrate with Army, Navy, and Air Force platforms.
Helps counter emerging threats like anti-satellite weapons by validating defensive space capabilities.
Plays a key role in the Space Force’s shift toward resilient, distributed space architectures to ensure continuity of operations.

As space becomes increasingly contested, the 1st Test and Evaluation Squadron remains a cornerstone of the U.S. military’s ability to innovate and adapt. Its rigorous testing protocols ensure that space systems are not only advanced but also battle-ready.