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.

101st Intelligence Squadron celebrates 100 years of Seagull Emblem

102nd Intelligence Wing

Video by Airman 1st Class Julia Ahaesy

June 14, 2024 | 1:24

The 101st Intelligence Squadron conducted an open ranks inspection on Otis Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts, June 14, 2024. Squadron leadership organized the inspection to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the squadron emblem, the longest continuously used patch in the U.S. Air Force.

The seagull patch was designed by Paul Seavey of New Bedford in 1924 and painted on every squadron aircraft throughout the unit’s history. The blue of the patch represents the water of the Boston Harbor when the squadron was stationed at Logan International Airport. The gold represents good luck to the squadron's men and women. The iconic seagull represents the squadron's capabilities, whether it supports an aviation or intelligence mission.

“The seagull is known for resilience in itself,” said Lt. Col. Michael Kelley, 101st Intelligence Squadron commander. “It can handle all New England weather and can be a bit of a scavenger when it needs to be. It has keen eyesight, which nods to all the units and squadrons it has represented.”

The open ranks inspection was conducted while the 102nd Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group returned to the mission.

(Air National Guard video by Airman 1st Class Julia Ahaesy) More