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. Jonathan Garcia, Staff Sgt. Nilsa Garcia

3E2X1 Pavements and Construction Equipment Specialist reel and interview

192nd Wing

July 14, 2024 | 1:10

Senior Airman Jesse Bradby, 203rd RED HORSE pavement and equipment journeyman, gives a glimpse into his career field in the Virginia Air National Guard. The Virginia Air National Guard and the U.S. Air Force are able to extend their presence and worldwide impact by having working bases wherever needed. Pavements and Construction Equipment personnel are responsible for constructing runways and airfields in remote global locations and maintaining facilities already in use. These professionals are part of a team that does everything from operating heavy construction equipment to detonating explosives to care for and create the facilities the U.S. Air Force needs the most. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Master Sgt. Jonathan Garcia and Staff Sgt. Nilsa Garcia)