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 Jonathan Cotto

Basic Defender Course

37th Training Wing

April 10, 2024 | 1:44

In October 2023, leaders replaced the Security Forces Apprentice Course with the Basic Defender Course – a tactical change more suited to contend with the global threat environment. The most significant change includes the removal of law enforcement focused objectives, prioritizing a more substantial emphasis on air base ground defense. The enhanced curriculum integrates advanced training modules that challenge cognitive abilities, decision-making under pressure and strategic thinking. It’s a deliberate move by security forces leaders to ensure the multi-capable Airmen can quickly adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of security threats. (U.S. Air Force video by Jonathan Cotto)