The U.S. Space Force has introduced a new set of dress and appearance regulations aimed at distinguishing its guardians from their Air Force counterparts. Released on August 15, 2023, the Space Force Instruction (SPFI) 36-2903 outlines updated standards that reflect the unique identity of the service, which has been operational since its establishment in 2019.
According to a statement from Katharine Kelley, Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Personnel, the new policy emphasizes the importance of military presence and appearance for each of the nearly 10,000 uniformed Guardians. She stated, “Every Guardian’s military presence and appearance are a critical and visible demonstration of our professional force.” This update aims to align dress codes with the Space Force’s mission and culture.
While some elements of the new regulations closely resemble those of the Air Force, several key differences have emerged. Notably, the Space Force has altered its grooming standards and the regulations surrounding duty identifier patches. As reported by Air & Space Forces Magazine, the Air Force recently banned all 134 of its duty identifier patches, a decision that former Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin addressed in a video statement earlier this year. He argued that such identifiers diminish the service members’ collective identity.
In contrast, the Space Force is adopting a more flexible approach. Guardians will have the opportunity to wear duty identifier patches, allowing them to display their diverse mission areas, which include orbital warfare, cyberspace operations, and satellite communications, among others. This initiative appears to promote a sense of pride among service members regarding their specialized roles.
Both the Space Force and the Air Force maintain similar personal grooming standards, including guidelines for hairstyles and nail polish. However, the Space Force has relaxed some requirements. Unlike the Air Force, which mandates that male airmen be clean-shaven and prohibits hair from touching the ears, the Space Force does not enforce such strict grooming rules.
Further changes to the dress code may be anticipated as the Space Force prepares to introduce new service dress uniforms, expected to debut in early 2026. This evolving policy reflects the Space Force’s commitment to establishing its distinct culture while maintaining professional standards among its personnel.