WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump has officially appointed Troy Meink, a former navigator for the Air Force’s KC-135 tanker aircraft and a previous deputy at the National Reconnaissance Office, to lead the Air Force as its top civilian official.


Meink brings with him nearly forty years of experience in both military and government roles focused on national security. His extensive background includes managing critical satellite intelligence systems and overseeing the military’s investment in space initiatives.


In a recent statement on his social media platform, Trump expressed confidence in Meink’s capabilities: “Troy will collaborate with our outstanding Secretary of Defense Nominee, Pete Hegseth, to ensure that our Nation’s Air Force operates as the most efficient and formidable force in the world, as we pursue a strategy of peace through strength.”


Should he receive confirmation for the position, Meink will be at the helm of both the Air Force and the U.S. Space Force. This military branch, which Trump established during his initial term, has recently marked its fifth anniversary, during which it has been quickly adapting to modernize the country’s space operations.


As multiple nations, including Russia, China, North Korea, and the United States, innovate methods for neutralizing or protecting the vast array of satellites orbiting the planet, Meink’s role will be crucial in enhancing the military’s space capabilities. These advancements aim to undermine potential adversaries without engaging in traditional ground warfare.


Hailing from Lemmon, South Dakota, Meink began his Air Force career as an ROTC cadet at South Dakota State University in 1988. In his latest position at the National Reconnaissance Office, he was responsible for managing a budget exceeding $15 billion, all dedicated to developing new satellite technologies.