Patrick Air Force Base named finalist for U.S. Space Command headquarters

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Patrick Air Force Base in Brevard County has been named one of six finalists for the future permanent home of the U.S. Space Command Headquarters, officials said Thursday.

The U.S. Department of the Air Force received nominations from 26 states and narrowed the candidates down to six communities.

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“Florida’s Space Coast is the 21st century answer for what will give our nation and warfighters the edge on this 21st century battlefield,” said Lynda L. Weatherman, President and CEO of the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast, in a statement. “Our unmatched quantity and quality of defense, civil and commercial space assets and expertise offer U.S. Space Command the agility, innovation and boldness needed to project space power.”

The U.S. Space Command is considered a combatant command tasked with overseeing any conflict in space.

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As officials work to narrow down the six candidates to choose the final home for the headquarters, officials said the USAF will hold both virtual and in-person visits at each of the locations.

The other finalists include locations in Colorado, New Mexico, Nebraska, Alabama, and Texas.

They said a decision is expected in early 2021.

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