SO Technology Development
Abstract
This project conducts studies and develops laboratory prototypes for applied research and advanced technology developments, and leverages other organizations' technology projects that may not otherwise be affordable within MFP-11. Small incremental co-investments with DoD, other government agencies, and commercial organizations allows USSOCOM to influence the schedule and direction of technology developments, emerging technologies, and capabilities for Special Operations Forces (SOF), with significant economies of investment. This USSOCOM investment strategy is used to link technology opportunities with USSOCOM capability deficiencies, capability objectives, technology thrust areas, and technology objectives. Requirements in these areas may be advertised to industry and government research and development agencies via broad area announcements and calls for white papers. Sub-projects include: • Rapid Exploitation of Innovative Technologies (REITS). REITS provides USSOCOM the ability to identify, assess and exploit emerging innovative technologies for SOF capability deficiencies and expedite technology transitions from the laboratory to operational use. These technologies provide new transformational capabilities and immediate operational impacts, while providing a compass for the direction of future SOF procurement. REITS supports both top-down and bottom-up approaches for USSOCOM Components, Theater Special Operations Commands and Special Operations Task Forces to articulate innovative technology recommendations. Requirements are submitted to USSOCOM for review and approval. The approval process is through the USSOCOM Quick Reaction Board (USSOCOM QRB). The USSOCOM QRB is chaired by the USSOCOM Deputy Commander. Members include the Director of Operations, Director of Requirements, the USSOCOM Acquisition Executive, Science Advisors, and the Interagency Task Force Director. The tenets of the QRB are to promote speed, evolution, collaboration, and engagement in three technology Capability Areas: 1) Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (C4), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), and Sensors; 2) Mobility; and 3) SOF Warrior Survivability Target Engagement and Lethality and Medical. An individual Technology Activity can be submitted from every echelon of command through the USSOCOM “HardEdge” portal for initial evaluation and distribution to industry, academia, laboratories or our in-country mobile technology complex to build the solution. The process is detailed in a USSOCOM Directive, “Rapid Technology Support to Special Operations.” • C4, ISR, and Sensors Capability Area. Develop technologies that provide SOF with improved situational awareness and communications and computer resources in all environments. Develop and discover technologies offering significant improvements in areas such as: enhanced sensors; enhanced command and control architectures and solutions; information consolidation, dissemination, and coordination; improved man-machine interface; covert secure communications; and effective antenna solutions. • Mobility, Power and Energy Capability Area. Exploit and develop technologies to improve the performance and survivability, and reduce the detectability of SOF mobility assets. Develop and discover technologies offering significant improvements in ground, sea, and air mobility areas such as: increased range/operational environment; improved durability; power/propulsion systems including new fuel sources, and reduced signature. • SOF Warrior Survivability Target Engagement and Lethality and Medical Capability Area. Exploit and develop technologies to increase the SOF warrior's survivability and performance. Develop and discover technologies offering significant improvements in areas such as: improved target identification and engagement, human identification, electro-optical vision systems, sensor fusion, human endurance, SOF medical equipment, operator safety, and improved weapons and accessories. • Special Operations Technology Development Sub-Project: This project conducts studies and develops laboratory prototypes for applied research and advanced technology developments, and leverages other organizations' technology projects that may not otherwise be affordable within MFP-11. • Tagging, Tracking, and Locating (TTL) Sub-Project: TTL technologies are a key element in the ability of SOF to find, fix, and finish targets in overseas contingency operations (OCO). This sub-project invests in critical science and technology efforts to improve operational capabilities for TTL high value individuals and objects in support of the OCO. • Classified Sub-Project (provided under separate cover). • The following technology activities were added by congress in FY 2010: • Flashlight Soldier-to-Soldier Combat ID System: Continue to develop a flashlight soldier-to-soldier combat identification system. • STAR TEC Partnership Program: Establish an ultra-responsive, local resource tied to academia, science and industry to meet unique SOF requirements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- S100_1160401BB_2_0400_PB_2012
Related Documents
- Root: Special Operations Technology Development
- Child Accomplishment: Rapid Exploitation of Innovative Technologies for SOF (REITS) - C4, ISR, and Sensors Capability Area
- Child Accomplishment: REITS - Mobility, Power and Energy Capability Area
- Child Accomplishment: REITS - SOF Warrior Survivability Target Engagement and Lethality and Medical Capability Area
- Child Accomplishment: Special Operations Technology Development
- Child Accomplishment: Tagging, Tracking, and Locating Technologies (TTL)
- Child Accomplishment: Classified