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 Senior Master Sgt. Julie Avey

Alaska National Guard Brings Holiday Cheer to Circle, Alaska with Operation Santa Claus

168th Wing

Nov. 6, 2024 | 2:39

Airmen from the 168th Wing volunteered with the Salvation Army as elves to sort and wrap gifts for Operation Santa Claus in preparation for delivery to Circle, Alaska, on Nov. 4, 2024. On Nov. 6, members of the Alaska Army and Air National Guard joined Santa Claus in delivering presents to the children of Circle. The Alaska Army National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk aircrew from Alpha Company, 1-168th General Support Aviation Battalion, stationed at Fort Wainwright, flew the gifts, Santa, and volunteers to bring holiday cheer to the residents of Circle. Operation Santa Claus is an annual outreach initiative that has been spreading holiday joy to rural Alaskan communities since 1956. This year marks the 69th year of the program, which was established after the village of St. Mary's faced hardship and the Alaska Air National Guard delivered gifts and supplies. Circle was chosen for this year’s mission due to the recent severe flooding that impacted the community. The event is one of three deliveries scheduled this year, bringing Santa's magic to the farthest corners of Alaska. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Senior Master Sgt. Julie Avey)