# Space Force Brig. Gen. Robert Schreiner becomes NRO deputy director
The former NRO facility commander returns to help manage the agency's design, acquisition, launch and operations of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Published 2026-11-07 by TGOs. Canonical: https://tgos.io/news/2026/11/07/space-force-brig-gen-robert-schreiner-becomes-nro-deputy/
Space Force Brig. Gen. Robert J. Schreiner assumed duties as National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) deputy director and Space Force Element commander on Nov. 6, 2026.[1][2]
Schreiner returns to an agency where he commanded NRO Delta 20 and Aerospace Data Facility-Colorado from August 2021 to July 2024.[3] His career includes acquisition management and systems engineering assignments, alongside space operations.[1] Before taking the deputy post, he commanded U.S. Space Forces Northern.[1]
He succeeds Space Force Maj. Gen. Christopher S. Povak, who has been selected for appointment to lieutenant general and assignment as deputy chief of space operations for operations at Space Force headquarters.[1] NRO Director L. Roger Mason Jr. said Povak served more than four years as deputy.[1]
## Why it matters
Schreiner will assist the director in managing the NRO's strategic and tactical operations, including the design, acquisition, launch and operations of the nation's intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.[1] As Space Force Element commander, he will also lead military personnel assigned to the NRO, manage associated service resources and serve as the director's senior advisor on military matters.[1]
## Sources
1. NRO press release, "NRO welcomes Brig. Gen. Schreiner as new deputy director and Space Force Element commander"
2. NRO release PDF dated Nov. 6, 2026
3. NRO biography, Brig. Gen. Robert J. Schreiner