Thermionic power systems are being considered for space‐based miltary applications because of their survivability and high efficiency. Under the direction of the Air Force, conceptual designs were generated for two thermionic power systems to determine preliminary system performance data and direct future component development. This paper discusses the power processing and control (PP&C) subsystem that conditions the thermionic converter power and controls the operation of the reactor and thermionic converter subsystems. The baseline PP&C design and design options are discussed, mass and performance data are provided, and technology needs are identified. The impact on PP&C subsystem mass and efficiency of alternate power levels and boom lengths is also presented. The baseline PP&C subsystem is lightweight and reliable, and it uses proven design concepts to minimize development and testing time. However, the radiation dosages specified in the program research and development announcement (PRDA) are 10 to 100 times the capabilities of present semiconductor devices. While these levels are aggressive, they are considered to be achievable by 1995 if the Air Force and other government agencies continue to actively develop radiation resistant electronics devices for military applications.