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 Spc. Terrance Salinas

VAARNG and FLARNG work together after spotting a enemy convoy at NTC

107th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

July 28, 2025 | 2:10

Infantrymen with Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, Virginia Army National Guard, receive a report from forward observers with 2nd Battalion, 116th Field Artillery Regiment, Florida Army National Guard, about an incoming enemy convoy during a training exercise at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., July 28th, 2025. The coordination between units enhances real-time battlefield communication and readiness. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt Terrance Salinas)