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.

B-Roll: MDNG Arrives in DC to Support 60th Presidential Inauguration

29th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Video by Staff Sgt. Chazz Kibler

Jan. 16, 2025 | 2:07

U.S. Army soldiers and U.S. Air Force airmen with the Maryland National Guard conduct Joint Reception Staging Onward Movement and Integration at the District of Columbia Armory in Washington, on Jan. 16, 2025. Approximately 8,000 National Guard service members from approximately 40 states and territories will unite to support the 60th Presidential Inauguration, continuing a legacy that began in 1789 when their predecessors escorted George Washington to the first inauguration. At the request of civil authorities, these National Guard service members will provide crowd management, traffic control points, a parade marching element, CBRN response, civil disturbance response and sustainment operations. The National Guard’s experience, versatility and longstanding relationships helps ensure seamless collaboration with interagency partners to set the conditions for a safe and peaceful presidential inauguration. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Maj. Benjamin Hughes and Staff Sgt. Chazz Kibler) More