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 Sgt. 1st Class Nathan Baker

Download

Exercise Wolverine Video Package: Defending Critical Infrastructure from Cyber Threats Through Joint Collaboration

128th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

April 30, 2026 | 1:25

Video package: During Exercise Wolverine, Utah National Guard leadership highlights the importance of protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats and strengthening a collaborative defense posture. The segment addresses cyberspace as part of the modern battlefield, where threats can directly impact essential services such as hospitals, schools, electricity, and water systems. While cyber risks can create uncertainty, the discussion emphasizes that these vital systems can be defended through coordinated planning and response. Leaders underscore the value of proactive collaboration during peacetime—sharing information, identifying vulnerabilities, and building partnerships ahead of any crisis—to ensure public safety and continuity of essential services.