In October 1970, Hatch was assigned to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Washington D.C., where he served as military assistant for strategic analysis in the Office of the Deputy Director for Strategic and Space Systems, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. He then attended the National War College from August 1973 until July 1974. After graduating, Hatch was assigned to the Aircraft Division, Directorate of Operational Requirements and Development, Headquarters USAF, Washington D.C. After serving as deputy division chief, he became chief of the division in June 1976. In September 1978, he was assigned as deputy director for strategic forces, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Research, Development and Acquisition.
