Michael Guetlein

Michael Guetlein
Official portrait, 2024
Born	(1967-11-22) November 22, 1967 (age 56) Oklahoma, U.S.
Allegiance	United States
Branch	United States Air Force United States Space Force
Years of service	1991–2021 (Air Force) 2021–present (Space Force)
Rank	General
Commands held	Vice Chief of Space Operations Space Systems Command Space Force Element to the National Reconnaissance Office Remote Sensing Systems Directorate Space-Based Infrared System Production Division Rapid Reaction Squadron
Awards	Defense Distinguished Service Medal Air Force Distinguished Service Medal Defense Superior Service Medal Legion of Merit (2)
Alma mater	Oklahoma State University (BS) Wright State University (MBA) George Washington University

Michael Anthony Guetlein (born November 22, 1967) is a United States Space Force general who serves as the second vice chief of space operations. He recently served as the first commander of Space Systems Command from 2021 to 2024. He previously served as the deputy director of the National Reconnaissance Office from 2019 to 2021.

Guetlein was born and raised in Oklahoma. He joined the United States Air Force in 1991 after graduating from the Oklahoma State University. He is a career acquisitions officer who has worked in special operations, global power projection, missile warning and detection, and counterspace programs. He has commanded the Rapid Reaction Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, and the Space Force Element to the National Reconnaissance Office. He has also led Space and Missile Systems Center's Space-Based Infrared System Production Division and Remote Sensing Systems Directorate.

Guetlein transferred to the Space Force in 2021 while serving as NRO deputy director. In the same year, he became the inaugural commander of Space Systems Command. In 2023, he was nominated and confirmed for promotion to general and appointment as vice chief of space operations .