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 Spc. Savannah Smith

Multiple Launch Rocket Systems

119th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

May 18, 2023 | 1:26

FORT CHAFFEE, Ark.— Alpha Battery, 1st Battalion, 142nd Field Artillery Brigade conduct training on their Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) during Operation Razorback Thunder 2023, May 18, 2023.
MLRS are highly mobile, self-propelled artillery systems that rapidly deliver firepower to a designated target area via surface-to-surface rockets. The MLRS consists of a fire control system, and a launcher vehicle with multiple pods, each containing a set of rockets.
The MLRS can rapidly deploy rockets in quick succession, sending a large number of explosives down on a target area. This capability is particularly effective for area suppression, counter-battery fire, and attacking enemy positions. MLRSs have proven to be a valuable asset, providing a mobile and versatile means of delivering firepower to support ground forces during offensive operations or neutralize enemy artillery and air defense.
Cpt. Justin Mackey explains the importance of discipline initiative from the top down during Annual Training, “relying on your subordinates to conduct the mission…and trusting them to do so.”