Reoptimization for Great Power Competition

GPC Key Decisions

USAF Case for Change

SecAF Memo

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.

Task Force Spartan Soldiers and Kuwaiti Wheelchair Athletes Compete

Task Force Spartan

Video by Master Sgt. Daniel Palermo

May 9, 2018 | 2:16

On May 9, more than 60 Task Force Spartan soldiers visited the Kuwait Disabled Sports Club in Kuwait city.

Soldiers participated alongside their Kuwaiti neighbors in several different wheelchair sporting competitions such as basketball, fencing table tennis and bocce. The event is part of the “Every Soldier is an Ambassador” program, which provides soldiers an opportunity to interact and build relationships with local citizens.

The U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait, Lawrence Silverman was present.

Participating in fun sporting challenges allowed both Kuwaiti and American participants to enjoy their time together and have an opportunity for cultural learning, as well as an understanding of how persons faced with challenges adapt, overcome, and shine. A can-do competitive spirit was present in all participants during the events.

The athletes played late into the evening and wrapped up their competitions with group photos and `tokens of appreciation between the Kuwait Disabled Sports Club and U.S. Army Task Force Spartan players. More