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. Chazz Kibler

B-Roll: MDNG Arrives in DC to Support 60th Presidential Inauguration

29th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Jan. 16, 2025 | 2:07

U.S. Army soldiers and U.S. Air Force airmen with the Maryland National Guard conduct Joint Reception Staging Onward Movement and Integration at the District of Columbia Armory in Washington, on Jan. 16, 2025. Approximately 8,000 National Guard service members from approximately 40 states and territories will unite to support the 60th Presidential Inauguration, continuing a legacy that began in 1789 when their predecessors escorted George Washington to the first inauguration. At the request of civil authorities, these National Guard service members will provide crowd management, traffic control points, a parade marching element, CBRN response, civil disturbance response and sustainment operations. The National Guard’s experience, versatility and longstanding relationships helps ensure seamless collaboration with interagency partners to set the conditions for a safe and peaceful presidential inauguration. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Maj. Benjamin Hughes and Staff Sgt. Chazz Kibler)