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. Chris Heathscott

National Guard Tests Response to New Madrid Earthquake in Regional Exercise

77th Combat Aviation Brigade

April 16, 2013 | 2:44

Guardsmen from Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas are currently participating in a regional emergency response exercise based on a New Madrid Earthquake scenario which simulates a 7.7 magnitude earthquake having occurred in Northeast Arkansas.

The exercise, labeled “Vigilant Guard,” is designed to replicate the deployment of forces under Emergency Management Assistance Compacts (EMACs) in preparation for the potential of a real-world catastrophic event that would require external support. The exercise is sponsored by US Northern Command in conjunction with the National Guard Bureau.

This video shows Soldiers of the Louisiana National Guard participating in the exercise.