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

F-15 EX Eagle II Unveiling Ceremony (Full Ceremony)

Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office

July 12, 2024 | 25:40

The 142nd Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard hosted a historic ceremony July 12, 2024, at the Portland Air National Guard Base to unveil its new F-15EX fighter jet. This momentous occasion featured distinguished speakers, including The Honorable Tina Kotek, Governor of the State of Oregon; Senator Ron Wyden, U.S. Senator for Oregon; Major General Duke Pirak, Acting Director of the Air National Guard; and Brigadier General Alan Gronewold, The Adjutant General of Oregon. The ceremony highlighted the F-15EX and its significance for Oregon's defense and the modernization of the Air National Guard. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from these state and national leaders about this upgrade's importance for the local community and national security. The event underscored the 142nd Wing's commitment to remaining at the forefront of aerial defense technology while continuing to serve as Oregon's "military service of choice."