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 Courtesy

Veterans in Blue 2017 - Stan Standridge

3d Audiovisual Squadron

Nov. 3, 2017 | 2:42

Veterans in Blue is a multimedia collection showcasing men and women who have contributed to the legacy of the Air Force.

Stan Standridge joined the Air Force to escape from an impoverished childhood. He served as a security specialist from July 1989 to July 1993. He began his service at Hahn Air Base, Germany, and separated as a senior airman at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. While on a deployment, his brother passed away. Standridge said he is forever greatful for the care he received from the Air Force during this diffucult time. While still on active duty, he went to college and worked a part-time job. At his second job, he befriended an officer at the Abilene, Texas, Police Department. The officer convinced Standridge to apply for the APD. Following separation from the Air Force, Standridge said he was selected from more than 450 applicants to attend the police academy, primarily because of his veteran status. After graduating from the police academy, Standridge quickly made his way through the ranks, eventually becoming APD’s youngest chief of police at age 37. He credits the Air Force for providing him with a better life and giving him the ability to become a leader at a young age. Standridge currently lives in Abilene, Texas, as the APD Chief of Police and honorary commander of the 7th Security Forces Squadron at Dyess AFB.

Created by: 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs, Dyess Air Force Base, Texas

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