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. Frederick Brown

9th Security Forces Squadron trains with autonomous AI robotic targets

9th Reconnaissance Wing

Jan. 15, 2025 | 9:08

The 9th Security Forces Squadron conducted a 3-day exercise using autonomous robots equipped with innovative artificial intelligence technology to replicate the movement of combatant forces. The exercise required Defenders to apply realistic mobility and decision-making skills required in an austere environment during combat scenarios. The training also included a self-driving vehicle operated by the technology. The exercise included use of the M18 Modular Handgun System and the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) light machine gun, as well as sniper rifles. The exercise included moving target engagement drills, and ambush and defensive operations. (U.S. Air Force video by Frederick A. Brown)