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.

Army Reserve Band in Disneyland

U.S. Army Reserve Command

Video by Cpl. Timothy Yao

July 3, 2017 | 4:53

Army Reserve Bands performed in Disneyland as part of their annual training. Soldiers from the 191st, 300th, and 395th Army Bands showcased their music through small ensembles and marched a parade on Main Street.

Soldiers leading the parade dressed as Minutemen are members of the 63rd RSCs Colonial Color Guard. They are specially trained in 18th century manual of arms, drill and ceremony as well as uniform & equipment standards of the period. Throughout the Western region of the United States, there are several Civilian Re-enactment groups, each with flag bearers. What's unique about the CCG is that they are the only one in the entire Western region made up of actively serving Soldiers." More