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.

Combat Lifesaver Course in Germany

7th Army Training Command

Video by Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Spence

Nov. 17, 2023 | 1:43

U.S. Army Soldiers, assess a simulated casualty during a combat lifesaver course offered by the Combined Arms Training Center in Vilseck, Germany, Nov. 17, 2023. The purpose of the CLS course is for the Soldiers to practice and sharpen their tactical combat casualty care skills in preparation for possible real-world situations. CLS takes the basic knowledge and skills the Soldier attained from common task training and addresses the unique aspects of applying emergency medical care to casualties on the battlefield. CATC offers individual training and professional education for U.S. Army Soldiers, Department of the Army and host nation civilians, and multinational partners through the most efficient and effective means available to ensure readiness and interoperability. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Kevin A. D. Spence) More