Intelligence Systems Development

The Intelligence Systems Development program, managed by United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) under Program Element (PE) 1160405BB, is a key component of the Military Intelligence Program (MIP). Its primary goal is to identify, develop, rapidly prototype, and test intelligence equipment and systems tailored for Special Operations Forces (SOF). The program aims to address and eliminate deficiencies in delivering timely, actionable intelligence to deployed SOF units, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness in complex and contested environments. The budget request supports a broad portfolio of research, development, and operational systems integration efforts.

National Systems Support to SOF (NSSS) focuses on leveraging national, Department of Defense (DoD), and commercial space-based assets to improve SOF's situational awareness, target acquisition, signals intelligence (SIGINT), geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), and special communications capabilities. NSSS emphasizes rapid prototyping and integration of SOF-peculiar satellite payloads and technologies with existing national and DoD infrastructures, including the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). The objective is to transition innovative space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) technologies into programs of record, supporting both USSOCOM and Theater Special Operations Commands (TSOCs).

Special Operations Tactical Video System/Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (TVS/RSTA) provides SOF with advanced reconnaissance equipment for mission planning and execution. The program delivers interoperable systems capable of capturing and disseminating near-real-time imagery, video, and sensor data under various visibility conditions. TVS/RSTA supports continuous development of economical surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, including integration of low-light sensors and maritime acoustic payloads. The acquisition strategy leverages commercial and government sources for system integration and testing, aligning with the Interim National Defense Strategy's priority of homeland defense.

Integrated Survey Program (ISP) develops and delivers tailored operational intelligence products for counter-terrorism, evacuation, and rescue missions. ISP integrates mobile computing and third-party data to support operational planners within DoD and the Department of State. The program employs a rapid acquisition strategy, utilizing commercial off-the-shelf software and hardware to ensure timely delivery and iterative enhancement of digital products for emerging SOF requirements.

Sensitive Site Exploitation (SSE) enables rapid acquisition and prototyping of forensic identity operations, supporting the Find, Fix, Finish, Exploit, Analyze, and Disseminate (F3EAD) cycle. SSE includes modular forensic laboratories, biometric devices, and document/media exploitation (DOMEX) capabilities for analyzing captured exploitable material (CEM). The program supports integrated deterrence objectives by facilitating intelligence sharing with foreign partners and advancing regional security goals.

SOF Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Processing, Exploitation, Dissemination (PED) Silent Dagger (SD) delivers ISR and analytical capabilities to SOF units through reachback, forward support, and collaboration tools. The program integrates edge processing and security technologies to improve data throughput and secure operations in contested environments. Planned enhancements include SafeNet Trusted Access Technologies for streamlined authentication and access control, supporting secure enterprise and network initiatives.

Small Uncrewed Multidomain Systems (sUMS) and Multi-Mission Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems (MTUAS) provide SOF with organic uncrewed platforms for ISR, autonomy, and electronic warfare. sUMS focuses on AI-enabled, autonomous systems for persistent surveillance and target prosecution across air and ground domains. MTUAS supports Naval Special Warfare with Group 3 UAS for tactical imagery and signals intelligence. Both programs emphasize rapid prototyping, integration of advanced payloads, and evolutionary acquisition strategies to address dynamic operational requirements and technology obsolescence. Congressional adds in recent fiscal years have further supported autonomy development and technology enhancements in MTUAS.