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.

The 56th Infantry Brigade Combat Team refines tactics

5th Armored Brigade

Video by Sgt. Raquel Birk

May 18, 2023 | 4:09

Soldiers with the 56th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Texas Army National Guard refined training and tactics during a culminating training exercise at McGregor Range Complex, New Mexico May 18 in preparation for an upcoming NATO mission.

The unit's training on casualty evacuation, quick reaction force techniques, security operations, convoy operations, and movement techniques were evaluated by observer, coach/trainers with TF Warhawg, 1st Battalion, 360th Infantry Regiment, 5th Armored Brigade.

The 56 IBCT rehearsed CASEVAC and QRF operations with the Black Hawk UH-60 helicopter which is the Army’s utility tactical transport helicopter. It provides air assault, general support, aeromedical evacuation, command and control, and special operations support to combat, stability and support operations. This versatile Black Hawk helicopter has enhanced the Army’s overall mobility due to dramatic improvement in troop and cargo lift capacity. It will serve as the Army’s utility helicopter in the Future Force. More