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 Staff Sgt. Richard Colletta

Cavalry Troopers earn their spurs

20th Public Affairs Detachment

May 10, 2018 | 6:09

The 6th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, “Six Shooters,” 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, a rotational unit serving in Korea under the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, held a Spur Ride May 9-10. The Spur Ride is a rite of passage, designed to challenge Soldiers mentally and physically, validating unit leadership, reinforcing the cavalry tradition and certifying spur candidates as official spur holders.

The 36-hour long event featured numerous events including water survival training, physical fitness challenges, close combat scenarios, pugil stick combat and concluded with a 12-mile ruck march. Many events are made to mirror great moments in the history of the U.S. Cavalry such as the charge of Private George Platt, awarded the Medal of Honor for recovering the regimental flag of the 6th U.S. Cavalry.

The Spur Ride is one of the unit’s last major training events, culminating their 9-month deployment working side-by-side with their Republic of Korea Army counterparts. 191 Republic of Korea and U.S. Soldiers completed the Spur Ride earned their spurs.