US Space Force Offers $25K Bonus for 8-Year Enlistments, Limited to 100 Candidates

Published Jul 17, 07:46 PM UTC

The U.S. Space Force has launched an Initial Enlistment Bonus Pilot Program effective July 1 through November 30, offering a $25,000 bonus to new Guardians who commit to an eight-year active-duty enlistment. The program is limited to 100 candidates and aims to address the lengthy specialized training periods that often reduce operational time for shorter enlistments. Chief Master Sergeant John Bentivegna emphasized that longer contracts ensure Guardians become more capable operators. The Space Force, which has consistently exceeded recruiting goals, plans to double its current force of about 10,000 Guardians. The service requested $13 million for enlistment bonuses in fiscal 2026, more than triple the previous year's allocation, and is seeking the same for fiscal 2027. Growth will focus on space, intelligence, cyber, and acquisition career fields.