Special Tactics / Combat Control

The Special Tactics/Combat Control program, part of the Air Force's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation efforts, focuses on advancing the capabilities of Special Warfare operators through the Special Warfare Acquisition Growth and Refresh (SWAGR) initiative. This initiative aims to modernize and enhance systems that provide Command, Control, Communications, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities. The program seeks to reduce equipment size and weight while improving operational effectiveness for Air Force Special Operations Command's Special Warfare operators. Key areas of development include Human Machine Interface (HMI), Line of Sight (LOS) targeting, and Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems.

The SWAGR initiative is designed to improve situational awareness and precision lethality in combat scenarios by developing technologies that allow operators to efficiently recognize, identify, range, nominate, and designate targets in various conditions. It also focuses on reducing the time required to find and engage targets by enhancing capabilities such as electromagnetic spectrum awareness and defensive/offensive operations. These advancements aim to provide highly accurate target coordinates and imagery while ensuring seamless data transmission to Command and Control centers.

In FY25, the program will continue its efforts through industry technology demonstrations and prototypes to further enhance SWAGR systems. This includes supporting Tactical Command and Control programs within AFSOC to ensure effective communication systems for combat controllers and other special operations personnel. Program management is overseen by the Program Executive Office Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (ISR), and Special Operations Forces at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Additionally, SWAGR supports innovation activities such as studies, analyses, requirements definition, and quick-reaction capability prototypes. These efforts are crucial for accelerating technology transition and insertion into future acquisition programs. The program also covers necessary civilian pay expenses for managing and executing these capabilities effectively.