Warrior Systems

The Warrior Systems Program Element (PE 1160431BB), managed by United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), is a comprehensive research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on equipping Special Operations Forces (SOF) with advanced, specialized capabilities. The overarching goal is to ensure SOF technological superiority across a spectrum of operational environments, particularly in denied or hostile areas. This is achieved by developing, prototyping, and integrating cutting-edge systems for information operations, weapons, protection, sensors, communications, tactical automation, and munitions. The budget request supports both classified and unclassified efforts.

D476: Military Information Support Operations (MISO) aims to develop and field systems that enable SOF to conduct psychological operations, influencing foreign audiences and countering adversarial propaganda. Key programs include systems that provide multi-band radio, television, and cellular broadcast capabilities, as well as suites that expand dissemination options to include dismounted, scatterable, and unmanned platform variants. Multimedia content creation is supported for MISO activities. These efforts are justified by the need to deter aggression and shape the information environment in support of national defense objectives.

S375: Weapons Systems focuses on the development, testing, and integration of next-generation SOF weapons and accessories. The program supports pre-planned product improvements for systems such as suppressed upper receiver groups, advanced sniper rifles, and lightweight machine guns. Emphasis is placed on leveraging emerging technologies and rapid prototyping to maintain overmatch against evolving threats. The acquisition strategy employs both Middle Tier of Acquisition and traditional pathways to deliver incrementally improved capabilities.

S385: Soldier Protection and Survival Systems and S385A: Body Armor and Associated Equipment fund the development, testing, and fielding of personal protective equipment, electronic countermeasures, counter-uncrewed systems, and survivability gear tailored to SOF needs. Programs aim to enhance operator survivability, mobility, and health through advanced personal equipment requirements, power and data accessory suites, and tactical combat casualty care. The counter-uncrewed systems initiative integrates advanced sensors and defeat mechanisms to address threats from aerial, ground, and maritime unmanned systems. Congressional adds in recent years have accelerated efforts in counter-UAS and body armor optimization.

S395: Visual Augmentation, Lasers and Sensor Systems supports the development of night vision devices, laser designators, weapon optics, and sensor systems to improve SOF situational awareness and targeting. Efforts include visual augmentation systems and advanced simulation tools for training and certification. The focus is on miniaturization, multispectral capabilities, and integration with artificial intelligence to provide real-time, actionable information to operators.

S700: Communications Equipment and Electronics Systems underpins SOF's command, control, communications, and computer capabilities. Programs provide resilient, scalable communications and shared situational awareness across tactical, operational, and strategic levels. Investments are directed toward reducing size, weight, and power, enhancing interoperability, and integrating advanced analytics and cloud technologies for data-centric operations.

S710: Tactical Systems Development and S725: Tactical Radio Systems address the need for advanced automation, mission planning, and radio communications. Programs deliver edge computing, artificial intelligence, and agile software solutions for mission planning and execution. Tactical radios ensure secure, interoperable communications and real-time tracking for SOF and partner forces, supporting operations in contested environments.

S800: Munitions Advanced Development funds the engineering, testing, and qualification of SOF-peculiar munitions, including stand-off precision guided munitions, ground organic precision strike systems, and maritime precision engagement munitions. The focus is on integrating precision strike capabilities onto SOF platforms, developing munitions suitable for GPS-denied environments, and ensuring compliance with insensitive munitions standards. These efforts are critical for providing SOF with flexible, low-collateral-damage strike options in support of integrated deterrence and global operations.