Reoptimization for Great Power Competition

“I’m extremely proud of the Space Force and all the good it has accomplished. But, as good as we are, as much as we’ve done, as far as we’ve come, it’s not enough. We are not yet optimized for Great Power Competition.”

~ Chief of Space Operations
Gen. Chance Saltzman

The establishment of the U.S. Space Force was a direct response to threats arising from Great Power Competition in the space domain. Nevertheless, our legacy roots leave us sub-optimized for the security environment confronting us today, and we must finish fine-tuning the service to continue meeting its National Defense Strategy responsibilities

In early 2024, the Department of the Air Force unveiled sweeping plans for reshaping, refocusing, and reoptimizing the Air Force and Space Force to ensure continued supremacy in their respective domains while better posturing the services to deter and, if necessary, prevail in an era of Great Power Competition. Through a series of 24 DAF-wide key decisions, four core areas which demand the Department’s attention will be addressed: Develop People, Generate Readiness, Project Power and Develop Capabilities.

The space domain is no longer benign; it has rapidly become congested and contested.

We must enhance our capabilities, develop Guardians for modern warfare, prepare for the high intensity fight, and strengthen our power projection to thrive and win in this new era of Great Power Competition.

Video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio

National Guard unveils new heritage room

National Guard Bureau

Nov. 1, 2023 | 1:15

Gen. Daniel Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, presided over a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 1, 2023, at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, VA, to unveil the National Guard heritage room, known as “The 1636 Room.” In June, Hokanson invited each state, territory, and the District of Columbia to contribute one or more artifacts for the room, which is located on the second floor of Patton Hall. Each item helps showcase the rich history of the National Guard and adds to a unique gathering space for National Guard members and invited guests. The National Guard Bureau History Office coordinated the room's layout and design, with substantial contributions from historians Dr. Elena Friot and Dr. Richard Clark. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. Amber Monio)