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 Senior Airman Christina Carter

B2 Spirit performs flyover at UCM home game

509th Bomb Wing

Sept. 8, 2022 | 1:02

Whiteman Air Force Base wing commanders from the 509th and 131st Bomb Wings and the 442nd Fighter Wing, attend the University of Central Missouri Military Appreciation football game, Sept. 8, 2022, in Warrensburg, Missouri. Whiteman AFB and UCM share a valuable community partnership that fosters a supportive relationship between the base and local communities. B-roll package includes pregame festivities, B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber flyover, UCM players running onto field, coin toss, a UCM field goal and halftime recognition of 442nd FW member by the UCM Military and Veterans Success Center. (U.S Air Force video by Senior Airman Christina Carter)