Distributed Common Ground/Surface Systems

The Distributed Common Ground/Surface System (DCGS-SOF) program, managed by United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), is a key element within the Military Intelligence Program (MIP). Its primary objective is to rapidly field advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Processing, Exploitation, Dissemination (PED), and analytical capabilities to Special Operations Forces (SOF) at the Combatant Command (COCOM), Component/Theater Special Operations Commands (TSOC), and subordinate levels. The program aims to enable seamless, secure, and interoperable sharing of intelligence data and services among SOF, other military services, national intelligence agencies, COCOMs, and multinational partners. This enhances situational awareness and operational effectiveness.

The DCGS-SOF program is comprised of two major components: Enterprise/All Source Information Fusion (ENT/ASIF) and SOF Geospatial Intelligence Imagery Processing, Exploitation, and Dissemination (SGIP). ENT/ASIF focuses on developing and integrating infrastructure, processing capabilities, and analytical tools for global SOF intelligence sharing. This is achieved through a cloud-based architecture that supports both connected and forward-disconnected operations, ensuring that SOF personnel have access to critical intelligence regardless of their location. ENT/ASIF also supports the integration of commercially available and government off-the-shelf technologies to accelerate capability delivery.

The SGIP component is designed to provide robust PED capabilities for both crewed and uncrewed sensor data in garrison and deployed environments. SGIP leverages advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence to enhance the exploitation of geospatial intelligence and imagery. A notable objective for SGIP is the development of an undersea PED prototype, which aims to extend ISR capabilities into maritime domains. This reflects the evolving operational requirements of SOF missions.

For fiscal years 2024 through 2026, the program's goals include iterative capability releases, value assessments using agile software acquisition practices, and continued technology enhancements. These enhancements focus on integrating emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning into both ENT/ASIF and SGIP components. The program also plans to conduct exercises and limited objective test events to gather user feedback. This informs ongoing development and helps ensure that delivered capabilities meet operational needs.

The Acquisition Strategy for DCGS-SOF emphasizes rapid and iterative delivery of operational software through the software acquisition pathway. USSOCOM utilizes a variety of contract vehicles, including Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ), Firm Fixed Price (FFP), and Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contracts. The strategy leverages partnerships with other SOF programs, Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community agencies, National Labs, and other government entities. This collaborative approach facilitates the integration of mature technologies and accelerates the development of SOF-peculiar applications that support the creation of intelligence products for Geographic Combatant Commanders.

Specific budget allocations within the DCGS-SOF line item include funding for technology enhancements and cloud integration under ENT/ASIF, as well as investments in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and undersea PED prototypes within SGIP. Support activities and test and evaluation events are also funded to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of new capabilities. In FY 2026, a reduction in funding is noted, primarily due to decreased investment in ENT/ASIF technology enhancements and cloud integration, reflecting a shift in program priorities or completion of certain development milestones.