**Location and Event**
TAMPA, Florida – Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is actively seeking enhancements for their fixed-wing aircraft during the annual Global SOF Foundation Special Operations Forces Week.
**Key Aircraft Upgrades**
Special operators are looking to industry for a suite of upgrades that include radio frequency countermeasures, improved aerial refueling methods, and enhanced networking capabilities. This reflects a broad need for advancements across various aircraft platforms.
**MC-130J Combat Talon III Updates**
One major focus is the MC-130J Combat Talon III, which is envisioned as a pivotal component on the battlefield. The objective is to connect ground operators with air, space, and command centers. To achieve this, the aircraft is undergoing testing for terrain-following and avoidance technology, and it requires integration with satellite communications, data links, and radar systems.
**Technological Needs**
Current priorities include upgrading the MC-130J’s radio frequency countermeasures and increasing its processing power. Future capabilities will incorporate tactical mission route replanning, flight management, defensive countermeasures, and embedded training systems for complex missions.
**Wide Range of Enhancements**
Lt. Col. Andrew Sturgeon, head of mobility for the Program Executive Office-Fixed Wing, emphasized that enhancements must encompass extending range, improving communication systems, advancing defensive systems, and increasing payload capacity for mission versatility and precision delivery.
**OA-1K Skyraider II and AC-130J Ghostrider**
The OA-1K Skyraider II is also targeted for upgrades, including modular sensor payloads and weapon enhancements. For the Skyraider and the AC-130J Ghostrider, there is a demand for longer-ranging weapon systems adaptable to contested environments and autonomous weapons capabilities.
**Strike Portfolio Requirements**
According to Lt. Col. Shawna Matthys, improvements across the entire strike portfolio involve increased automation, advanced navigation, and resilient communications. This also includes modular payload effects to give operators more targeting options.
**Drones and Artificial Intelligence**
In the realm of drones, especially the MQ-9A and MQ-1C, SOCOM seeks hardened data links, adaptable autonomous behavior, and the implementation of AI and machine learning to streamline operations. Brandi Evans, head of airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance for PEO-Fixed Wing, highlighted the goal of integrating autonomy into existing systems for enhanced mission effectiveness.
**Manned ISR Platforms**
For manned Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance platforms like the U-28 and DHC-8 (STAMP), SOCOM is aiming to improve sensor technology, all-weather capabilities, and automate operations to alleviate crew workloads.
**Author Background**
Todd South, a military veteran of the Iraq War, has reported on crime, courts, government, and the military since 2004 and was a 2014 Pulitzer finalist for a project on witness intimidation.
