Special Operations Command Needs Industry Help Upgrading Uncrewed Systems
U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is actively collaborating with industry to modernize its uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) in response to increasingly congested and dangerous airspaces, especially as drones reshape modern warfare, as seen in Ukraine. SOCOM is focusing on accelerating software development, improving hardware scalability, adopting modular open-systems architectures, and enhancing autonomy to make drone operations more efficient and cost-effective. Leaders emphasize the need for a mindset shift among operators to view drones as expendable munitions and ground stations as weapons. The command seeks scalable, low-cost solutions and is relying on industry for rapid prototyping, sensor and effector development, and integration of AI for decision-making. However, trust in autonomous systems remains a hurdle. SOCOM maintains an open, ongoing dialogue with industry, encouraging innovation through regular testing events and collaboration to ensure warfighters are equipped to meet evolving threats.