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 Courtesy

US Marines, Sailors conduct CASEVAC during KAMANDAG 3

3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade

Oct. 10, 2019 | 1:12

U.S. Marines and Sailors perform a casualty evacuation drill, or CASEVAC, as part of KAMANDAG 3 at Colonel Ernesto P. Ravina Air Base, Philippines, Oct. 10, 2019. The United States is proud to participate in this Philippine-led, bilateral exercise in order to develop capabilities across a wide range of military operations. The Marines and Sailors are with 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. KAMANDAG is an acronym for the Filipino phrase “Kaagapay Ng Mga Manirigma Ng Dagat,” which translates to “Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea,” highlighting the partnerships between the U.S. and Philippine militaries. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Cpl. Jacob Hancock)