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 Maj. Wayne Clyne

Oregon Guard hosts inaugural statewide sniper competition B-Roll

Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office

Sept. 5, 2025 | 1:53

The Oregon National Guard hosted its inaugural Oregon State Sniper Qualifier Sept. 4-6 at Raymond Rees National Guard Training Center and Boardman Training Area, marking the first statewide competition designed to prepare sniper teams for national-level events. The three-day, nine-stage competition challenged participants with complex problem-solving scenarios that tested marksmanship, decision-making, and adaptability under time pressure, going beyond traditional range training. The winning team earns the opportunity to represent Oregon at the prestigious Winston P. Wilson competition, with potential advancement to the International Sniper Competition. Organized by the 249th Regional Training Institute in just three months, the event has already generated interest from Special Forces units, neighboring states, and law enforcement agencies for future participation.