Reoptimization for Great Power Competition

GPC Key Decisions

USAF Case for Change

Air Force FAQ for Reoptimizing Great Power Competition

“We need these changes now; we are out of time to reoptimize our forces to meet the strategic challenges in a time of great power competition.”

~ Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall

The United States faces a time of consequence marked by significant shifts in the strategic environment. To remain ready, the U.S. Air Force must change.

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.

Today, the Air Force once again finds itself at a critical juncture—an era of Great Power Competition marked by a new security environment, a rapidly evolving character of war, and a formidable competitor. This new era requires understanding its challenges and the attributes needed to succeed.

Embracing change is not a choice; it is a necessity. The Air Force must “reoptimize” into an enterprise prepared for high-end conflicts and long-term strategic competition.

Mud, Sweat and Tears: Runners temper their mettle during MARSOC Mud Run

II Marine Expeditionary Force

Video by Sgt. Paul Peterson

April 26, 2014 | 1:24

Running enthusiasts converged on Stone Bay for the MARSOC Mud, Sweat & Tears 5-Mile Mud Run at Camp Lejeune, N.C., April 26, 2014. The course offered a glimpse into the trying conditions faced by Marines and sailors training aboard the base. In addition to putting their own mettle to the test on some of the same routes used by the Marine Corps, the families of service members deployed with Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 2nd Marine Logistics Group teamed up with other runners from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit community to hit the course in support of their loved ones overseas. The runners earned their laundry day, turning their bright pink shirts a few hues darker as they splashed through the five-mile obstacle course. Dozens of other teams and hundreds of individual runners also joined the participants from CLB-22. Available in high definition. More