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.

Iowa ANG's 185th ARW aircrew perform flyover for Iowa vs Perdue game

185th Air Refueling Wing, Iowa Air National Guard

Video by Airman 1st Class Olivia Monk

Oct. 7, 2023 | 2:13

B-roll video shows a KC-135 Stratotanker from the Iowa Air National Guard’s 185th Air Refueling Wing performing a flyover above Kinnick stadium prior to kickoff of the University of Iowa vs Perdue football game in Iowa City, Iowa on October 7, 2023.

The event had members of refueling wing make the short trip across the state from their home in Sioux City where they put their air refueling aircraft on display above Kinnick stadium.

After the third quarter the Iowa Airmen were invited to the Hawkeye endzone where they were honored and thanked for their participation in the pregame activities.

Flying demonstrations are part of the U.S. Air Force aerial events program designed to incorporate training activities with aerial demonstrations.

The Iowa National Guard education partnerships go beyond providing exciting pregame exhibition as many Iowa guard members are also students or alumni of Iowa Colleges and Universities.

Iowa National Guard membership offers numerous benefits to its members, including 100% tuition assistance that can be used at Iowa colleges and Universities like the University of Iowa.

Lower thirds:

Staff Sgt. Meleah Johnson
185th ARW Boom Operator More