Reoptimization for Great Power Competition

Reoptimization for Great Power Competition

Space Force Blue Background Graphic

 

 
Department of the Air Force
 

 

 

 

“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 

Space Force & Air Force announce sweeping changes to maintain superiority amid Great Power Competition

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 Airman Zachary Jakel
31st Operations Group War Day 26.1 B-roll
31st Fighter Wing
Feb. 4, 2026 | 1:19
Pilots and crew chiefs assigned to the 510th Fighter and Fighter Generation Squadrons prepare to operate F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to the 555th FGS for 31st Operations Group War Day 26.1 at Aviano Air Base, Italy, Feb. 5, 2026. This large-force exercise was the second successful iteration that showcased the 31st OG’s ability to execute several simultaneous operations in the event of real-world combat rescue requirements in contested airspace. (U.S. Air Force video by Senior Airman Zachary Jakel)
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Air Force Great Power Competition

 

 

 
Department of the Air Force