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. Joaquin Vasquez-Duran

Governor Newsom Briefed on Line Fire Response Efforts

40th Infantry Division

Sept. 11, 2024 | 1:26

California Gov. Gavin Newsom receives a briefing from local fire departments, the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, and CalFire at the Line Fire Incident Command Post in Beaumont, California, on Sept. 11, 2024. Nearly 6,000 personnel, including firefighters, National Guard Soldiers, and first responders, are deployed to combat the blaze, which has scorched over 26,000 acres. The coordinated effort includes 520 fire engines, 51 helicopters, and 141 water tankers, all working to protect the 65,000 structures threatened by the fire. Governor Newsom expressed his gratitude for the ‘heroic efforts’ of all involved, noting, ‘California is deeply grateful for the incredible coordination and tireless work of everyone on the ground.’

(U.S. Army National Guard video by Sgt. Joaquin D. Vasquez-Duran.)