US President Donald Trump has been mocked online after unveiling a proposed new design for Space Force uniforms. The design features a sleek charcoal-coloured jacket and trousers, a black belt, black boots and a matching cap, with the Space Force Delta symbol appearing on several parts of the outfit.
Trump described the uniform as a “next generation” design inspired by the discipline and functionality of the Starship Troopers uniform. However, the reference quickly attracted attention because the 1997 science-fiction film depicts a future society governed by a fascist regime involved in a war against giant alien creatures.
Social media users also compared the proposed uniforms to those worn by villains in Star Wars. Some critics joked that the outfits looked like uniforms belonging to the Galactic Empire, while others pointed to similarities with Nazi military-style clothing.
The comparisons sparked debate over the message the uniforms could send, particularly given the themes associated with the films that appear to have influenced the design. Menswear writer Derek Guy described the style as resembling the type of costume used in space movies to immediately identify the villains.
Conservative commentators also joined the discussion, with some acknowledging the similarities to Star Wars while still supporting the development of the US Space Force and its growing role in space operations.
It remains unclear whether the design will become the official Space Force uniform or whether the graphic shared by Trump was simply part of his regular social media posts. The controversy has nevertheless drawn widespread attention to the proposed look and its unusual science-fiction influences.
