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 Sgt. Shane Smith

2018 ARNG Best Warrior Competition - 12 mile ruck march

Fort Indiantown Gap

July 27, 2018 | 4:15

On July 27, the final day of the 2018 Army National Guard Best Warrior Competition, the 14 competing Soldiers rose early to catch a CH-47 Chinook flight to Gettysburg, the site of the final physical challenge of the competition – a 12 mile ruck march. Command Sgt. Maj. John Sampa, CSM of the Army National Guard, high fived and commended each Soldier as they crossed the finish line at the Gettysburg Area School District’s Warrior Stadium. Army National Guard leadership, support staff, family, friends, and spectators were all present to cheer on the Soldiers at the start and end of the rigorous course.