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 Lance Cpl. Justin Roux

HMLA-269 assists Expeditionary Operations Training Group exercise

Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point

May 9, 2017 | 1:16

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269 supports Marines assigned to Expeditionary Operations Training Group conducting a fast rope training exercise near Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C., May 9, 2017. HMLA-269 assisted EOTG with training new helicopter ropes suspension techniques masters in training. These HRST masters will be responsible for conducting fast rope and repelling training exercises conducted by II Marine Expeditionary Force. HMLA-269 is a light attach helicopter squadron assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. EOTG is a training group assigned to II MEF. (Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Justin Roux/ Released)