sotech 11 4 programupdates

2012 was another exciting year for the Special Operations Research, Development and

Acquisition Center (SORDAC) and our acquisition professionals, the Special Operations Forces

(SOF) Acquirers. It was a year chock full of initiatives, challenges and changes, and in keeping

with the Center’s hallmark of excellence, our team of military, civilians and

contractors accomplished every mission.

Acquisition remains a demanding profession within a complex landscape

of dynamic budgets, requirements, processes, laws and oversight. The SOF

Acquirers’ persistence and resiliency to navigate obstacles and adapt to

new rule-sets is remarkable and just one of the amazing characteristics

of our team. Through collaboration with the services and our industry

partners, SORDAC continues to have a direct impact on the success of the

SOF operator, and I could not be more proud to be associated with such a

dedicated group of professionals.

I am most proud of our shared bond with the SOF operator. It’s a

resolute commitment to provide rapid and focused acquisition, technology

and logistics support to the operational force through a synchronized effort

with the USSOCOM Commander’s Lines of Operation. The Program Executive Offices managed

extensive, multi-billion-dollar portfolios composed of hundreds of programs in such areas as

fixed and rotary wing aircraft, surface and subsurface maritime platforms, C4 systems, ISR,

weapons, body armor, visual augmentation systems, ground mobility platforms, ammunition,

service contracts, contracted logistics and much more! Equally as impressive were USSOCOM

J4’s operational and strategic support to SOF worldwide and the Procurement Directorate,

which awarded more contracts under SORDAC authority than in any year past. These

achievements reflect our pride in ensuring special operations forces are outfitted with the finest

kit, technology and equipment, and none of this would have been possible without the superb

support from the rest of our SORDAC workforce. SOF Acquisition is truly a “team sport.”

As you read our PEOs’ and directors’ articles and consider their many impressive

accomplishments, it’s my hope that you sense the pride our SOF Acquirers have in supporting

the brave men and women who selflessly sacrifice for our nation.

Accelerate the Force!

James W. Cluck

Acquisition Executive

U.S. Special Operations Command

U.s. sPeCiaL oPerations CommandsPeCiaL oPerations researCh, deveLoPment and aCqUisition Center

Real-time screen captures are from MetaVR’s visualization system and Afghanistan 3D virtual terrain and are unedited except as required for printing. The real-time renderings of the 3D virtual world are generated by MetaVR Virtual Reality Scene Generator™ (VRSG™). 3D models and animations are from MetaVR’s 3D content libraries. Photograph of the MetaVR-BSI JTAC desktop simulator courtesy of the Illinois Air National Guard, Peoria, IL. © 2013 MetaVR, Inc. All rights reserved. MetaVR, Virtual Reality Scene Genera-tor, VRSG, the phrase “Geospecifi c simulation with game quality graphics”, and the MetaVR logo are trademarks of MetaVR, Inc.

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Program exeCUtive offiCe for fixed Wing

Air Force Colonel Michael J. Schmidt leads the Program Executive Office for Fixed Wing (PEO-FW). Its mission is to deliver special opera-tions (SO)-peculiar manned and unmanned fixed wing airpower capabilities to effec-tively enable special operations forces (SOF). To meet this mis-sion, PEO-FW partners with the SOF operator and various development and support organizations to synchronize acquisition activities to field an array of advanced technology sensors, defensive counter-measures, advanced avionics and mission training systems. This process ensures SOF fixed wing aircraft can accomplish missions in expected threat environments and address supportability challenges of an aging legacy fleet.

SOCOM’s manned and unmanned fixed wing aircraft provide the backbone for SOF airborne mobility, aerial refueling support, airborne precision engagement and aerial surveillance capabilities. They provide critical infiltra-tion and exfiltration, and they resupply capabilities for SOF in and out of hostile territory through weapon systems such as the MC-130J Commando II, MC-130P Combat Shadow, MC-130H Combat Talon II and CV-22 Osprey aircraft. The AC-130H Spectre, AC-130U Spooky and AC-130W Stinger II provide critical precision engagement and close-air support. Various manned and unmanned systems deliver real-time aerial surveillance of the battlefield for the indi-vidual soldier, sailor, airman, Marine and task force com-mander.

The low-density, high-demand nature of the SOF

fixed wing fleet is a key driver in the acquisition approaches used to continue to improve and sustain the force. The high operational tempo of these aircraft requires inno-vative means to incorporate capability and sustainment improvements while ensuring adequate aircraft availability.

C-130—BaCkBone of the sof fixed Wing fLeet

PEO-FW continues to face the mounting challenges of sustaining the low-density, high-demand legacy SOF C-130 fleet while simultane-ously satisfying roadmaps for modernization. PEO-FW man-ages numerous SOF C-130 sustainment, modification and modernization programs.

SOCOM, in conjunction with the Air Force, is procur-ing 37 new MC-130J aircraft through a joint program with Air Combat Command’s combat search and rescue community to recapitalize the aging MC-130E/P tanker fleet. A total of 13 MC-130J aircraft were delivered in the fourth quarter of 2012, which included the first aircraft that will be converted to an AC-130J. In addition, a com-petitive contract was awarded in 2012 to provide terrain-following radar capabilities on MC-130J aircraft.

In 2011, SOCOM began a program to replace the aging AC-130H gunship fleet with new AC-130J aircraft. The AC-130J program will modify MC-130J aircraft with the precision strike package. This program completed a suc-cessful Milestone B review and began engineering and manufacturing design in 2012

in preparation for the first air-craft modification scheduled for 2013.

Ongoing operations con-tinue to stress the legacy SOF C-130 fleet. In 2012, SOCOM and Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex, Ga., implemented a new program to replace obsolete mission computers on the AC-130U and the MC-130H aircraft. The new mission computers will begin fielding in 2014. The center wing box replacement (CWR) on the AC-130U and MC-130H aircraft also contin-ued in 2012. To date, 11 AC-130Us and 17 MC-130Hs have had their center wing boxes replaced. An additional two AC-130U and two MC-130H aircraft will complete the CWR modification in 2013.

A consolidated, low-cost modification program also continues in 2013 to address ongoing obsolescence and other sustainment issues across the SOF C-130 fleet.

aC-130W stinger ii—sof’s PreCision strike airCraft

The Stinger II is equipped with a modular precision strike package (PSP) with enhanced electro-optical/infra-red sensors, a trainable 30 mm cannon, the stand-off preci-sion guided munition family of missiles, and a networked battle management system. These modifications provide Stinger II the capability to execute close-air support and armed overwatch missions in support of deployed forces. In addition to supporting immediate combat operations, the Stinger II’s modular PSP provides a risk reduction plat-form for SOCOM’s AC-130J

program. The PSP combat-proven capability will provide the initial combat capability for the AC-130J. The Stinger II platform continues to serve as a test bed for risk reduction activities and the evaluation of future enhanced capabilities.

In 2012, the Stinger II team added the GBU-39/B small diameter bomb (SDB) capability to the PSP suite of weapons, enhancing the sys-tem’s lethality and survivability by providing a weapon with a higher-yield warhead and increasing the stand-off range for certain engagements. The team also showed the potential to add even more capability by successfully demonstrat-ing engagements using a laser-guided SDB variant, the Hellfire missile, and a 105 mm gun. Two Stinger II aircraft were continuously deployed in 2012 in support of combat operations.

Cv-22 osPrey—sof’s Long-range insertion PLatform

The CV-22 fulfills the requirement for high-speed, long-range insertion and extraction of SOF in hostile or denied territory in a single period of darkness. The range, altitude and speed of the CV-22 provide flexibility, unpredict-ability and less dependency on staging bases or refueling assets. As a result, the CV-22 can self-deploy worldwide to satisfy current combat opera-tions and higher authority taskings. CV-22s have deployed to multiple locations around the globe and have been actively supporting Operation Enduring Freedom since 2010. SOCOM has delivered 31 of the programmed fleet of 50 CV-22s.

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The unique characteris-tic of the CV-22 is its ability to take off and land like a helicopter; however, once airborne, its engine nacelles tilt to convert the aircraft into a high-speed, high-altitude turboprop airplane. The CV-22 is tailored for special opera-tions missions through an enhanced electronic warfare suite, specifically the AN/AAQ-24 Directional Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM), the AN/ALQ-211 Suite of Integrated Radio Frequency Countermeasures (SIRFC), and the AN/APQ-186 Terrain Following/Terrain Avoidance (TF/TA) multi-mode radar. The DIRCM system provides active protection against infra-red homing missiles. SIRFC counters threats through its missile-warning receivers and jammers and provides real-time threat information to the aircrew through a dedicated display unit in the cockpit. The TF/TA radar provides the aircrew with the ability to mask the aircraft by flying low and taking advantage of sur-rounding terrain. To further enhance aircraft and crew sur-vivability, the CV-22 includes a GAU-18 .50 caliber or M-240D 7.62 mm ramp-mounted weapon system. The CV-22 is powered by two turbo shaft engines that produce 6,150 shaft horsepower each, which enable a cruising speed of 230 knots. The CV-22 is a fly-by-wire aircraft that provides twice the speed, three times the payload, five times the range, and more than twice the altitude of a conventional CH-46 helicopter.

U-28a

In response to an escalat-ing need for intelligence, sur-veillance and reconnaissance (ISR), PEO-FW procured six

Pilatus PC-12 aircraft in 2005. These aircraft were modified with a suite of military com-munications and sensor equip-ment and were subsequently fielded as U-28A aircraft in 2006. The aircraft was selected for its versatile performance and ability to operate from short and unimproved runway surfaces. Weight reduction and mission enhancement modi-fications were implemented on these aircraft in 2007, extending their operational range and effectiveness. Nine additional aircraft were pro-cured in 2007 for subsequent delivery during 2008. Through DoD supplemental funding in 2008, SOCOM procured another six aircraft to meet increased operational demands and standardize the entire fleet. The final aircraft deliv-ered in January 2010, and the fleetwide modifications were completed in September 2010. As part of an Air Force Special Operations Command force restructure, the NSAV PC-12 aircraft will be converted to the U-28 configuration. Fund-ing for converting the first six aircraft was sourced, and the contract was subsequently awarded in September 2012.

rC-26B

SOCOM partnered with the National Guard Bureau to support SOF objectives for overseas contingency opera-tions. Six RC-26B aircraft were expeditiously modified and fielded with a SO-peculiar communication and sensor suite. These aircraft provide critical, manned persistent ISR capabilities for SOF opera-tions. Two aircraft support a training mission in the con-tinental United States, and four assets are continuously deployed for immediate real-world operations. In 2012, the

aircraft moved from Iraq to Afghanistan; SOCOM is cur-rently in the early planning stages of divesting this asset back to its original role within the National Guard Bureau by September 2013.

non-standard aviation

The non-standard aviation (NSAV) mission provides dedi-cated intra-theater airlift and contractor logistics support for the geographic combatant commander’s theater special operations commands. The NSAV program, along with the derivative Aviation For-eign Internal Defense (AvFID) program, delivered 21 light aircraft [11 Pilatus PC-12s and 10 C-145As (formerly M-28 Skytrucks)] and 17 medium aircraft C-146As (formerly Do-328s) to support com-mand mobility requirements worldwide. All NSAV aircraft are modified with a common suite of military communica-tions equipment. Light air-craft funding and deliveries began in 2008 and continued through 2012.

Of the 21 light aircraft, all 11 PC-12s have been procured and delivered to the 318th Special Operations Squadron at Cannon Air Force Base (AFB). NSAV initial opera-tional capability was met when two of the PC-12s suc-cessfully deployed with full contractor logistics support in mid-2008.

The C-145As have been delivered to Cannon AFB (five) and Duke Field, Fla. (five). An additional five M-28s were ordered in 2012 and will be delivered to Duke Field by October 2013 after mission modifications. The four C-145As at Cannon will move to Duke in May 2013, and the entire fleet will

officially transfer from NSAV to AvFID.

The C-146A aircraft pro-curements began in 2010. Of the 17 medium C-146A aircraft, 12 aircraft have been procured and five more are on contract. Twelve C-146As have delivered to the 524th Special Operations Squadron at Cannon AFB; the remain-ing five C-146A aircraft will deliver in 2013.

Unmanned airCraft systems

Unmanned aircraft sys-tems (UASs), from the small hand-launched UAS (SUAS) to the larger Air Force MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper systems, support many differ-ent ISR requirements across the SOF component com-mands.

The SUAS is comprised of two variants, the RQ-20A PUMA All Environment and the RQ-11 Raven-B. Both variants provide SO-peculiar capabilities for real-time reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition.

The Medium Altitude Long Endurance Tactical, or MALET, platforms are SO-peculiar variants of the Air Force MQ-1s and MQ-9s. These platforms are equipped with capabilities to support SO-peculiar missions and personnel.

UASs are proving their value in a wide range of cur-rent combat operations by providing SOF with surveil-lance platforms, the ability to see over the next hill or corner, and “eyes in the sky” to protect them from improvised explosive devices. SOCOM continues to develop and field advanced unmanned airborne capabilities in sup-port of ongoing operations around the world.


mUnitions and emerging teChnoLogy

PEO-FW procures and integrates stand-off precision guided munition (SOPGM) variants for use on the AC-130W Stinger II, AC-130J and other aircraft. The SOPGM provides a small, lightweight precision-guided weapon for irregular warfare. The Griffin missile is a SOPGM that uti-lizes a common launch tube and a government-developed Battle Management System; the Griffin is procured as a commodity product. An improved Block II, fielded in 2011, provides increased reliability and has been suc-cessfully used in combat operations. A laser small diam-eter bomb (LSDB) and Hellfire have been demonstrated on an AC-130W, and a contract has been awarded to integrate an LSDB onto the platform by the end of 2013.

PEO-FW’s emerging technology effort identifies and evaluates novel technol-ogy applications to ensure SOF aviation forces maintain

their technological edge in a rapidly changing world. The activity seeks enhanced opera-tional effectiveness through enhanced air vehicle, sensor, weapon and communications technologies. PEO-FW uses advanced concept technology demonstrations, joint capabil-ity technology demonstra-tions, cooperative research and development agreements (CRADAs), and foreign com-parative tests to evaluate new technologies, to rapidly transi-tion new capabilities to the field. Specifically, PEO-FW is managing a CRADA to explore technologies to increase first-pass lethality and conducted several studies in 2012 to improve mission management and systems on C-130 aircraft.

direCtionaL infrared CoUntermeasUres Program—ProteCting the fLeet

Infrared guided missile systems have become the adversary’s weapon of choice due to their passive nature

(i.e., low probability of detec-tion prior to launch), simple operation, low cost and avail-ability. At least 80 nations on six continents employ infrared guided surface-to-air mis-siles that can be carried and launched by one person. To address this evolving threat, SOCOM teamed with the United Kingdom to execute a cooperative acquisition program with merged require-ments.

The AN/AAQ-24 DIRCM system, the first successful program of its type, ensures fast, accurate threat location through on-board missile warning sensors. DIRCM was designed in modular fashion to allow multiple installation configurations on a wide range of fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft. The front-end produc-tion qualification and perfor-mance certification phase of the effort was completed in early 1999, and final installa-tion occurred in 2004.

The success of the DIRCM system is self-evident. The Air Force requirement has grown to well over 400 aircraft, resulting in the transition of

program management and sustainment responsibilities for all common components to the Department of the Air Force. SOCOM transferred sustain-ment responsibilities of the SO-peculiar components to Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex in the third quarter of 2012.

airCreW training systems—training the fLeet

Aircrew training system acquisitions address training needs for the Air Force Special Operations Command’s mul-tiple C-130 variants, as well as the CV-22 and U-28A. Addi-tional aircrew training systems are being studied to address non-standard aviation and small unmanned aircraft sys-tems. A current priority is the MC/AC-130J simulator pro-gram to develop and procure capability to support MC-130J and AC-130J aircrew train-ing. Along with a front-end weapon system trainer for the pilots, this program procures an AC-130J mission train-ing device that will support training back-end gunship

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aircrew. It will also deliver a simultaneous independent operations capability for AC-130J, allowing the front-end and back-end devices to operate either simultaneously as one interoperable train-ing system or independently as two separate training capabilities. This capability enhances aircrew collective training, individual training and overall training manage-ment flexibility, resulting in greater training throughput and proficiency for mission crews.

The Simulator Block Update (SBUD) program

ensures operational avail-ability and relevancy of fixed wing aviation training capa-bilities through procurement of training device modifica-tions and sustainment via contractor logistics support. This program procures modifications to sustain legacy training devices and replace obsolete subsystems to maintain fidelity, enhance reliability and maintainabil-ity, and ensure operational availability. In addition to upgrade procurements, the SBUD program sustains the operational availability of aircrew training devices and

overall training management through contractor logistics support.

sPeCiaL oPerations mission PLanning environment—PreParing the fLeet

The Special Operations Mission Planning Environ-ment (SOMPE) program is a computer-based suite of software products developed in response to SOCOM user-specified needs for rapid and accurate SOF time-sensitive planning. SOMPE products enable detailed mission

planning using imagery, digital terrain/nautical/man-made structural data, two- and three-dimensional mission views, threat posi-tions, weapon system ranges, friendly positions, weapon system performance data and limited environmental data. Looking forward, SOMPE program objectives are to address SOCOM air, ground and maritime operator mis-sion planning gaps, enable a three-dimensional planning environment in a network disconnected environment, and migrate to a modern software architecture.

Program exeCUtive offiCe for rotary Wing

Army Colonel Douglas H. Rombough leads the Program Executive Office for Rotary Wing (PEO-RW), respon-sible for providing the special operations forces community with the most advanced verti-cal lift capability available to the U.S. military. PEO-RW has placed emphasis on rotary wing transformation, with the initial focus on commonality of platforms and inventory reduction from 11 different platforms to three newer, more capable platforms while accommodating programmed growth in numbers. The rotary wing fleet now con-sists of the MH-47G Chinook, three different models of the MH-60 Black Hawk and the A/MH-6M Little Bird. Significant emphasis has been placed on the pre-program science and technology efforts in prepara-tion for planned programs to address aircraft survivability issues in an effort to provide the most capable rotary wing aircraft to the best aviators in the world today, the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR).

PEO-RW continues its focus on rotary wing transfor-mation with growth in num-bers and an increase in the capabilities of an already capa-ble fleet of aircraft. Various mission equipment programs address increased payloads, lethality, survivability and situational awareness while decreasing crew workload. Additionally, PEO-RW is look-ing to the future vertical lift efforts by participating in the Army-led future vertical lift integrated product team and the Under Secretary of Defense Science & Technology-led Future Vertical Lift Science & Technology Working Group.

Along with the Technology Applications Program Office at Fort Eustis, Va., the PEO-RW mission is primarily accom-plished by integrating special operations (SO)-peculiar mis-sion equipment packages onto proven Army helicopter plat-forms. This acquisition strat-egy supports the SOF operator while providing SOCOM with a cost-effective method of sup-plying a SOF platform capable of completing worldwide

SOF-unique missions. Both the Army and SOCOM benefit from the partnership of merg-ing Army and SO-peculiar components and technologies.

mh-47g Chinook

The venerable MH-47G Chinook is the heavy lifter of the SOF rotary wing fleet. With a maximum gross weight of 54,000 pounds and the ability to travel at more than 150 knots, the MH-47G provides SOF with a proven durable workhorse that fulfills a variety of missions around the world. The MH-47G was deployed in fiscal year 2007 and is currently supporting deployed SOF in multiple loca-tions.

The SOF MH-47 Chinook program team ordered the first of an additional eight new-build G-model aircraft consisting of a zero-time monolithic machined airframe and new dynamic components. The new-build Chinook will have the same extended-range fuel tanks, improved transportability provisions,

advanced aircraft survivability equipment and a new cockpit structure with the Common Avionics Architecture Systems. Based on the 2010 Quadren-nial Defense Review, work is continuing on the MH-47G program, which will increase the total number of MH-47Gs to 69 by 2015. The Block 2.3 upgrades continue with the acceleration of the digital automated flight control sys-tem, which provides consider-able assistance in reducing pilot workload, especially in situations of degraded vis-ibility.

mh-60m BLaCk haWk

Complementing the MH-47G is the medium lift MH-60M Black Hawk. The SOF Black Hawk supports two con-figurations: a troop transport configuration and a defensive armed penetrator (DAP) con-figuration. The DAP aircraft provides armed security for the MH-47G and MH-60 aircraft. The MH-60M mod-ernization program continues delivering new-build MH-60M


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aircraft and achieved a limited air worthiness release and initial operating capability in 2012. Once the replacement of aging MH-60L/K aircraft is completed, the MH-60M will provide a pure fleet of 72 MH-60M SOF Black Hawks to the 160th SOAR. The MH-60M program will complete its transition to a common MH-60M fleet in 2016.

The MH-60M SOF mod-ernization program takes Sikorsky’s new-build UH-60M aircraft from the Army and modifies them with SO-peculiar mission equip-ment. The MH-60M aircraft will feature common avionics architecture systems, the suite of integrated radio frequency countermeasures, wide-chord rotor blades, active vibration reduction, and the improved electro-optical sensor system. The most significant modifica-tion, however, is the incor-poration of two 2,500 shaft horsepower engines, which will give the aircraft a high/hot capability unmatched by any H-60 variant currently fielded. As the MH-60M is fielded, the 160th SOAR will continue phasing out the current MH-60K/L fleet.

a/mh-6m LittLe Bird

The A/MH-6M Little Bird program transforms a civil-ian aircraft into the Mission Enhanced Little Bird through a series of SO-peculiar modifi-cations, including an improved tail boom and tail rotor drive system, a full complement of weapon systems, an enlarged aft cargo door, an increase of the maximum gross weight to 4,700 pounds, and Mark IV rails. The Little Bird is fully configurable and is capable of serving in an attack or assault role. The aircraft is in the final stages of an upgrade to

Block 2.0 configuration, which provides an improved mission processor, transponder, Ether-net data bus, embedded global inertial navigation system and new ergonomic crashworthy seat. The Block 3.0 upgrade began in 2012 and addresses improved cockpit avionics, airframe structures and rotor systems. The serial block upgrade acquisition strategy is designed to extend the service life of the A/MH-6M while ana-lyzing the long-term alterna-tives for replacement.

mission eqUiPment

PEO-RW continues its focus on a variety of rotary wing mission equipment improvements to include continued fielding of the suite of integrated radio frequency countermeasures, reduced optical signature emissions solution, the aviation occupant ballistic protection system, and the hostile fire indicating system. Additionally, PEO-RW has strong ties to the SORDAC Directorate of Science and Technology to manage pre-pro-gram science and technology efforts concentrating on future requirements to software, sen-sors and electronic equipment. These efforts provide a jump-start for new programs, often allowing them to start at a more mature level of develop-ment than originally planned.

PEO-RW also works with service acquisition offices as part of the Office of the Secre-tary of Defense-led rotorcraft aircraft survivability equipment experiments using the three Maverick unmanned aircraft to allow for difficult and/or dan-gerous activities to reduce the risk to pilots and operational aircraft. PEO-RW’s partnership with the Helicopter Survivabil-ity Task Force (HSTF) has been a great success and has led

to other joint efforts with the Army for modifying service-common items to meet specific SOF requirements.

In addition to the focus on aircraft survivability equip-ment upgrades, PEO-RW has addressed critical avionics sys-tems and continues to upgrade the mission processors for each aircraft’s control display units and multifunction dis-plays. This effort will support the common avionics archi-tecture systems by upgrading the processing power from a Power PC 750 to a Power PC 7448, and it will provide flex-ibility to add complex software programs that will aid in route selection and flight in degraded visual environments.

The SOCOM Degraded Visual Environments (DVE) program is a combination of science and technology efforts to address aircraft operations and obstacle avoidance under reduced situational awareness conditions. The FY13 DVE program of record will develop a technical solution to one of the most pressing issues in rotary wing aviation. The pro-gram addresses various aspects of reduced situational aware-ness common to all rotary wing aircraft operations, and SOCOM’s effort is part of a larger effort being conducted by the individual services with significant coordination from the HSTF. SOCOM continues development of a synthetic vision backbone using digital terrain data and undefined sensors. Additionally, the com-mand is sponsoring technol-ogy demonstrations of sensors, like LADAR, to expand the overall solution to the DVE challenge.

siLent knight radar

The Silent Knight Radar (SKR) program provides

SOCOM with an affordable replacement for today’s aging terrain following/terrain avoid-ance (TF/TA) multi-mode radars employing Cold War radar technology. The required capabilities of SKR include TF/TA capability with a low probability of intercept and detection feature, color display of weather and weather inten-sity, high-resolution display of prominent terrain features, and detection and location of other aircraft and ships. The SKR program addresses issues of increased performance requirements, commonality across the SOF aviation com-munity and legacy system obsolescence.

The program completed a successful developmental test readiness review and subsequently initiated devel-opmental flight testing on the MH-47G aircraft, which was quickly followed with parallel testing on the MH-60M air-craft. To date, developmental flight testing continues on schedule and will continue into 2014. The low-rate initial production decision is planned for early/mid FY13.

rotary Wing simULation

Rounding out the rotary wing portfolio is the family of simulators supporting SOF platforms and missions. PEO-RW, along with the SOF Train-ing Systems Product Manager, provides the 160th SOAR with high-fidelity, full-motion train-ing systems for the MH-47E, MH-47G, MH-60K, MH-60M and A/MH-6M aircraft that support SOCOM requirements. The combat mission simula-tors (CMS) provide aircrews a real-world capability to prac-tice, validate and verify tactics, techniques and procedures to support training and mission


rehearsal. Additionally, the aquatics training device pro-vides for aircrew emergency egress training in a variety of environmental conditions.

The simulators are contin-uously updated to reflect the

latest aircraft modifications and to ensure SOF aircrews are provided training systems that are reliable, technically advanced and concurrent with the operational aircraft on the flight line.

The MH-47E CMS con-tinues with the upgrade to an MH-47G CMS, and the MH-60K upgrade to MH-60M is scheduled to start in 2013. The upgrades will parallel the induction of newer-model

aircraft into the fleet and accommodate increased training require-ments while taking advan-tage of the latest simulation technology and processor advancements.

Program exeCUtive offiCe for sPeCiaL oPerations forCes Warrior

Army Colonel Joseph A. Capobianco leads the Program Executive Office for Special Operations Forces Warrior (PEO-SW), a capabilities-based office. The mission of the PEO is “to provide rapid and focused acquisition of SOF-unique capabilities to SOCOM operators conduct-ing decisive SOF activities and global operations against

terrorist networks.” The orga-nization comprises acquisition professionals charged with developing and fielding SOF capabilities spanning a wide spectrum of functional war fighting commodity areas. The PEO team plans and imple-ments acquisition, contract-ing and logistics activities enabling operators to perform missions with the very best

target engagement; ground mobility; weapon systems and specialized munitions, demolitions and ammunition; visual augmentation; operator survival and support; tacti-cal combat casualty care; and counter-proliferation across the global SOF enterprise. Capobianco, and his team of 11 joint and direct reporting program managers, operating

within a disciplined, dynamic and fast-paced acquisition environment, continue to rapidly move capabilities to the SOF operator. The PEO-SW staff directly support and participate in planning, programming and budgeting resources to develop and field innovative solutions to meet a broad range of combat needs. As a resource sponsor, the

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PEO provides execution over-sight for a $2.8 billion budget (fiscal years 2013–2018) con-sisting of 114 programs and subprograms. When possible, the PEO pursues non-develop-mental items and commercial-off-the-shelf technologies as the most responsive means of expeditiously infusing emerg-ing capabilities into ongoing combat operations.

groUnd moBiLity

The program manager for the family of special operations forces vehicles (PM-FSOV) is responsible for cradle-to-grave management of the SOF ground mobility fleet. This fleet is divided into four classes of vehicles: light, medium, commercial and heavy. Whenever possible, PM-FSOV leverages vehicles provided by the services and modifies them with special operations (SO)-peculiar components to maximize capability while min-imizing expenditure of limited Major Force Program-11 fund-ing. When there is no suitable service-common platform available to modify, PM-FSOV will develop, integrate, pro-duce, deploy, train and sustain a SO-peculiar ground mobility platform that provides SOF a highly mobile capability for them to complete their most demanding missions. Overall, PM-FSOV is managing in excess of 4,600 SOF-configured vehicles that support SOF operations around the globe.

The all-terrain vehicle (ATV) provides individual all-terrain mobility to deployed SOF for a myriad of special operations missions. These vehicles are internally trans-portable within rotary wing assets and provide mobility to fully equipped SOF operators. ATVs enable them to rapidly maneuver in terrain not easily

navigated by larger, heavier vehicles. They fulfill an endur-ing capability need by enabling operators to efficiently manage and transport their combat load. In 2013, PM-FSOV will field 30 ATVs as part of a life cycle management strategy. In October 2013, ATVs will be removed from the ground mobility portfolio and will be managed at the component level.

The lightweight tactical all-terrain vehicle (LTATV) incorporates a side-by-side seat design and provides a light-weight, all-terrain capability to allow SOF to undertake operations across a wide vari-ety of missions with increased mobility and maneuverabil-ity. The LTATV is internally transportable by CH-47 rotary and V-22 variant aircraft. It carries two personnel and can be used for a multitude of operations spanning logistic support to casualty evacua-tion. It also provides a high degree of speed and mobility over rough terrain. PM-FSOV expects to re-compete the LTATV contract in 2013. To date, PM-FSOV has fielded 858 LTATVs and expects to field an additional 250 this year as part of a life cycle management strategy.

The non-standard com-mercial vehicle (NSCV) is a passenger-type commercial vehicle modified with ballistic protection, mobility enhance-ments, communications, navigation and night vision equipment. This type of capa-bility allows SOF to conduct low-profile operations in sup-port of a multitude of SOF missions. NSCVs provide SOF with the capability to conduct missions where a low visual signature is preferred, or the vehicles must be maintained on the local economy. NSCV was established as a program

of record and will award contracts for armored and unarmored vehicles to allow for continued production and fielding. To date, PM-FSOV has fielded 353 NSCVs and will field an additional 42 this year.

The ground mobility vehicle (GMV) is a medium-class wheeled tactical combat vehicle that provides general support to numerous SOF activities. The M1165A1B3 HMMWV is the current base vehicle with standardized SOF-specific modifications, including enhanced C4ISR capabilities. To date, PM-FSOV has fielded 1,259 GMVs and will field an additional 34 this year.

In September 2011, SOCOM approved a capability production document update to provide SOF with a new and improved variant of a medium-class vehicle. This update, referred to as GMV 1.1, sets the stage to replace the SOF-modified, service-com-mon HMMWV. Different con-figurations of the vehicle will be available to support a vari-ety of combat, combat support and combat service support roles. PM-FSOV is currently in source selection and review-ing multiple vendor proposals, leading to a single award for production of the new vehicle in 2013. A significant key per-formance parameter driving vehicle design is meeting an internal transport capability in a CH-47 helicopter to infil-trate and exfiltrate previously denied terrain.

PM-FSOV is in the sus-tainment phase of the mine resistant ambush protected, or MRAP, life cycle. To date, 618 RG-31s/RG-33s/RG-33 auxiliary utility vehicles have been fielded to SOF opera-tors. These vehicles provide operators with protection against improvised explosive

devices; they also enable direct action support by hosting an offensive capability in the form of an integrated remote weapon station. In the last year, PM-FSOV completed a block upgrade for the existing RG-33 fleet, which included the installation of an improved suspension system for enhanc-ing ground mobility, and they completed other engineer-ing changes that emerged as requirements from the deployed operators in the field.

The MRAP all-terrain vehi-cle (M-ATV) provides a mine-resistant all-terrain vehicle capability specifically for the conduct of small unit combat operations in highly restricted rural, mountainous and urban environments. SOCOM determined approximately 30 modifications must be made to the vehicle to provide a SOF platform with greater protec-tion and mobility, including a larger windshield, improved gunner’s platform, rear cargo access door, cargo bed protec-tion and several other safety-related items. PM-FSOV has fielded a total of 462 of these SOF variant M-ATVs. The team is in the process of completing a survivability upgrade, which includes underbody improve-ment armor on the existing M-ATV SOF fleet.

visUaL aUgmentation systems

The program manager for target engagement sys-tems (PM-TES) is responsible for the acquisition, product improvement, modification and sustainment of visual aug-mentation systems (VAS). This commodity area provides SOF operators with an ability to conduct missions while operat-ing at night and during periods of low visibility when battlefield


obscurants or bad weather are encountered. By minimizing the effect of these adverse con-ditions, VAS enables continuity of fire control, surveillance and land navigation while perform-ing mounted and dismounted operations.

The VAS commodity area focuses on materiel solutions for head-mounted goggles, weapon-mounted night vision sights and day scopes, hand-held imagers, ground vehicle-mounted systems for drivers and crewmembers, and laser range finders and designators to ensure the accurate delivery of precision-guided missiles and munitions. Emerging require-ments include a capability need for sensor and clip-on fusion devices, expanded field-of-view color night vision goggles, an

upgraded handheld imaging system that weighs 50 percent less than the current capability, digital technology, SOF VAS accessory kits, SOF VAS coun-termeasures and a handheld target location device.

This team awarded a new five-year indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity scope con-tract to purchase an improved scope for the precision sniper rifle. This scope is also inter-changeable with the MK13 for long-range shooting. The delivery/fielding of approxi-mately 1,000 scopes continued throughout FY12.

During 2012, PEO-SW fielded 1,334 head-mounted night vision goggles, 1,659 clip-on thermal imagers and 315 laser markers. During 2013, the PEO expects to field

a new binocular night vision device that will provide the operator with a smaller, lighter night vision goggle than the existing AN/PVS-15A. Addi-tionally, the PEO expects to field a spot-on-target device for viewing the handheld laser marker laser spot.

WeaPon systems

PM-TES also develops, acquires and manages weapon systems that provide SOF with highly reliable and accurate direct action offensive capa-bilities to increase the combat effectiveness of operators.

The MK13 MOD5 is part of the family of sniper weapons systems. This weapon provides a sub minute of angle accuracy out to ranges of 1,200 yards

while firing a caliber .300 Winchester Magnum cartridge. During FY12, the Marine Corps Forces Special Opera-tions Command realigned funds to procure an additional 78 rifles to achieve their cur-rent basis of issue (BOI) of 138 weapons. The MOD5 is in revision to a MOD7, which will incorporate a new stock with additional rail space and the family of muzzle brakes and suppressors flash hider and sound suppressor.

The combat assault rifle (CAR) family of weapons includes the 40 mm enhanced grenade launcher modules, the MK17 CAR heavy (7.62 mm) assault rifles, and the MK20 (7.62 mm) sniper sup-port rifles. The CAR program achieved the goal of caliber


modularity by fielding a 5.56 mm conversion kit for the MK17. This kit enables the MK17 to fire either 5.56 mm or 7.62 mm ammunition. Also, this kit, in conjunction with the MK17s Force on Force Kit, allows the use of the Army’s M1071 marking round for training. In FY12, the total number of CAR weapons fielded to the SOCOM compo-nent commands included 459 each MK13 40 mm enhanced grenade launcher modules; 3,076 each MK17 CAR heavy (7.62 mm) assault rifles; and 531 each MK20 (7.62 mm) sniper support rifles. During FY12, overseas contingency operations procurement funds supported the procurement of additional quantities of MK13s (279) and MK20s (163) for the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). Also, dur-ing FY12, AFSOC increased their MK17 BOI and procured an additional 157 each MK17s. With the increased BOIs, the CAR is scheduled to reach fielding completion by the third quarter of FY13.

A precision sniper rifle (PSR) requirement (rifle and ammunition) exists to increase the effective engagement range of SOF snipers to 1,500 meters and beyond. The PSR is envisioned to replace the existing M24 and MK13 sniper systems for anti-personnel engagements for the Army Special Operations Command. Contract award(s) for the PSR is/are scheduled for the second quarter FY13. A future incre-ment will seek to replace the M107 and MK15 heavy sniper rifle for anti-materiel engage-ments. The program has previ-ously fielded the PSR scope for use on existing sniper rifles via a successful SOCOM foreign comparative test program.

During FY12, the weapons accessories program fielded

16,422 weapon sights, consist-ing of magnified day optics, close quarter battle sights, clip-on night vision devices and visible lights. The program also fielded 5,693 laser sys-tems. The integrated fire con-trol program is an approved Defense Acquisition Challenge effort that kicked off in FY11. The goal for this program is to provide a low-cost modular and, preferably, integrated fire control for the M2HB, M2A1, MK47, M240, MK19 and MK44 mini guns. Contract award for this effort was in the fourth quarter of FY12.

The enhanced combat optical sight-optimized (ECOS-O) kicked off in early FY12 with the writing of a capabilities production docu-ment to highlight the required performance characteristics of the system. A competitive request for proposal was issued in July 2012, with an award scheduled for early 2013. The technological objective of the ECOS-O is to provide not only a rapid, short-to-mid-range, deliberate aiming capability (as in the current red-dot reflex, day optic sight and articulated telescopes, respectively), but also an extended long-range, positive, rapid aiming and identifica-tion capability exceeding the effective range of the ammu-nition and weapon platform. This expanded engagement/identification zone capability is desired in a single tactically compact ECOS-O subsystem, eliminating the need for two different optical sights by pro-viding a single sight capable of both types of aiming.

The weapons accesso-ries team also initiated and executed acquisitions, as part of SORDAC Directorate of Sci-ence and Technology efforts, focusing on out-of-band technologies for the thermal

collimated laser aiming device (TCAD). The concept of this device is to provide SOF opera-tors the ability to illuminate and point at potential targets in all light conditions in a wavelength that will not be compromised by adversaries with night vision equipment. Three contracts were awarded in FY12 for the development and delivery of prototype systems that provide this capa-bility. Deliveries of prototype systems from three vendors are scheduled for February 2013.

With the award of the two family of muzzle brakes and suppressors (FMBS) contracts in September 2011, the pro-gram in FY12 initiated the fielding of these components. The objectives of these items are to provide current com-mercial-off-the-shelf signature suppression capability, specifi-cally to minimize flash, sound and thermal signature for the following weapons: M4A1 car-bine, MK13 sniper rifle, MK46 lightweight 5.56 mm belt-fed machine gun, M249 5.56 mm belt-fed machine gun with para barrel, and the M240B 7.62 mm belt-fed machine gun. In FY12, the program used the current MK46/M240 suppressor and MK46 flash hider to answer a combat mis-sion needs statement for the M249.

Another major accessory is the rail/upper receiver group for the M4A1 carbine. During FY12, the program fielded approximately 3,105 each 10.3-inch M4A1 upper receiver groups and 1,869 each 14.5-inch upper receiver groups to SOCOM component com-mands. Fielding will continue in FY13 with 10.3-inch upper receiver groups.

With the approval of the Small Arms Signature Reduc-tion (SASR) Capabilities

Development Document in August 2012, the FMBS pro-gram began to look beyond the commercial market into the next generation of suppressor technology. This is an R&D program and will be conducted in a phased approach. During FY12, a solicitation was issued and a contract award was made in September. The objective is to provide revolutionary advancements in flash, sound and thermal suppression over current commercial off-the-shelf solutions. In addition, advancements in the areas of durability, maintainability, overall size, weight, etc., will be considered. The develop-ment effort will begin with the belt-fed machine guns and then transition to the assault rifles, sniper rifles and then pistols.

ammUnition/demoLition

The program manager for munitions (PM-Munitions) develops, acquires and man-ages SO-peculiar ammunition, demolition and breaching devices that provide SOF oper-ators with a multitude of mis-sion performance capabilities.

This dynamic and chal-lenging commodity area develops ammunition and munitions that enable opera-tors to maintain precision and accuracy at greater stand-off ranges against high value tar-gets (personnel and materiel).

PM-Munitions procured approximately 68 million rounds of 56 different types of munitions, including domestic and foreign small caliber ammo, shoulder-fired multi-purpose anti-armor anti-personnel weapon system (MAAWS) and lightweight assault weapon (LAW), can-non cal ammo for the AC-130 aircraft, demolition items,


pyrotechnics and flares, and hand grenades. The SOF small caliber ammunition purchases included the MK318 5.56 mm round, the MK319 7.62 mm round, the MK316 7.62 mm Special Ball Long Range round, and the MK248 .300 WinMag sniper round that extends the range of the current MK13 MOD5 rifle from 1,200 to 1,400 yards. All rounds provide the SOF operator with better accu-racy, insensitivity to extreme temperatures, reduced vis-ible signature and consistent terminal ballistic effects over service-common small arms rounds. PM-Munitions fielded more than 10,000 rounds of MAAWS ammunition.

The MAAWS is a man-por-table, shoulder-fired, recoil-less, line-of-sight, reloadable, anti-armor, anti-structure and anti-personnel weapon system. The MAAWS develop-ment effort includes a cannon caliber training round used to maintain operator proficiency while not having to consume the more expensive 84 mm combat round.

The LAW development activities added a fire-from-enclosure capability that will allow operators to fire both the M72A7 anti-armor and M72A9 anti-structure rounds from confined spaces. This improve-ment will also dramatically reduce the firing signature of the projectiles as they leave the weapon, helping to conceal the location of the shooter. This enhancement program will transfer to the Marine Corps in 2013 and become Navy/Marine Corps common.

The improved flash bang grenade development effort is under way with funding from the Joint Non-Lethal Weapons program to improve the currently fielded flash bang devices. This program

will increase the visual flash incapacitation, remove all the perchlorate oxidizers from the payload, and decrease the smoke output while keeping all other grenade parameters the same. The removal of the perchlorates will ensure that DoD is in compliance with new Environmental Protection Agency regulations.

soLdier ProteCtion, sUrvivaL and taCtiCaL ComBat CasUaLty Care

The program manager for SOF survival, support and equipment systems (PM-SSES) is responsible for the R&D, testing and acquisition of the protection, individual equipment and casualty care improvements for our SOF warriors.

The SOF Personal Equip-ment Advanced Requirements (SPEAR) program provides individual and personal pro-tective equipment for special operations. The program designs, develops, adapts, fields and sustains equipment that is employed by SOF operators to increase their survivability, mobility and effectiveness. The operator platform must be extremely adaptive in reacting to the ever-changing battle-field environment and threats and must allow for frequent technology insertions. Accord-ingly, SPEAR individual and personal protective equip-ment is designed, developed or adapted to provide greater force protection to ensure sur-vivability across all operational environments, unburden the operator, increase operational maneuverability, sustain high operational tempo and reduce lifecycle costs. SPEAR products are designed and developed to provide an integrated modular system for the SOF operator.

Recent Office of the Sec-retary of Defense ballistic test initiatives have been integrated into the SOCOM acquisition process and several mission-specific protective systems are now available. Optimization of signature management and camouflage initiatives is underway to provide multi-spectral pro-tection for SOF operators. These and other technology advancements are part of the continuous product improve-ment efforts to improve the survivability and individual equipment for operators.

During 2012, PEO-SW fielded 769 sets of body armor plates; 1,550 sets of soft filler inserts; 1,422 sets of soft filler; 75 modular supplemental armor kits; 396 clandestine body armor systems; 221 MICH helmets; 4,257 future assault shell technology com-bat helmets; 701 VAS mounts; 389 eyewear protection kits; 4,414 body armor vests; 7,546 load carriage systems; 8,930 back packs; 15,333 protec-tive combat uniforms; 3,807 modular glove systems in various camouflage patterns, including AOR 1, AOR 2 and multi-cam; and 7,565 MICH communications systems.

The SOF Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) pro-gram provides for individual first-aid kits, combat medic kits and casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) sets. During 2012, the program manager fielded 3,220 operator first-aid kits and 192 combat medic kits. Another high-priority require-ment for medical care at the point of injury includes a CASEVAC set, which provides SOF with an organic capability to extract, stabilize, mobilize and transport from the point of wounding to the point of definitive medical treatment. The fielding and deployment

release for the TCCC CASE-VAC set was approved in June 2012, initiating fielding. Dur-ing 2012, the program man-ager fielded 42 extraction kits, 37 mobility kits, 21 transport kits and 21 sustainment kits. The SOCOM Acquisition Rapid Response Medical Team for the TCCC and CASEVAC programs received the 2012 Better Buy-ing Power (BBP) Efficiency Award for their breadth of accomplishments in executing BBP efficiency initiatives and ability to shorten acquisition time and reduce life cycle costs.

mediCaL systems

The program manager for medical systems (PM-Medical) is responsible for product improvement, fielding and sustainment of a full spectrum of medical devices and equip-ment enabling SOF personnel to treat and sustain the force. SOCOM continues to focus robust efforts in the medical R&D arena to discover new lifesaving technologies that can benefit our SOF operators at the point of injury, often in remote, denied areas. PM-Medical was responsible for the design and development of a combat- ready clamp and an abdominal aortic tourni-quet: two medical devices to achieve, within the “golden hour,” lifesaving hemorrhage control on wounds in the groin and abdomen areas that were previously considered non-treatable by combat med-ics at the point of injury on the battlefield.

The abdominal aortic tourniquet was designed, developed and tested and later selected by Popular Science for their prestigious “Innovative Invention of the Year,” published in their June 2012 edition. PM-Medical


played a significant role in the successful preparation and award of several significant contracts in support of the Preservation of the Force initiative to field human performance and behavioral health specialists throughout all of the SOF components to help mitigate the effects of prolonged war.

PM-Medical also executes a dedicated medical research and development program called MedTech. Working in conjunction with senior mili-tary medical leaders through-out SOCOM, PM-Medical gathers medical capability gaps and funds those R&D projects that have the most promise for providing significant impact on SOF operations. During FY12, MedTech managed 12 projects, running the gamut from a novel battlefield hemo-static device to a peak health and performance project for combatant craft crewmen and to a respiratory muscle training project to assist dis-mounted SOF operations at high altitude.

Program exeCUtive offiCe for maritime

Navy Captain Timothy J. Kelly leads the Program Executive Office for Maritime (PEO-M), an office dedicated to providing special operations forces operators with opera-tionally effective and sustain-able surface and subsurface maritime mobility platforms and equipment.

PEO-M manages over $750 million of Major Force Program-11 (MFP-11) dollars over the current Future Years Defense Plan. PEO-M’s MFP-11 management responsibil-ity includes wide latitude of control and decision-making authority for all budget activi-ties, regardless of whether the

SOCOM program is managed within the PEO or by a pro-gram manager in a military department. PEO-M’s portfolio includes 16 surface and sub-surface acquisition programs and subprograms, with the Naval Special Warfare Com-mand, or NAVSPECWARCOM, as its primary customer.

Undersea Programs

Undersea programs include the SEAL delivery vehicle, dry deck shelter, and a variety of related subsystems and pre-planned product improvement programs. New acquisitions under develop-ment include the shallow water combat submersible (SWCS) program, dry combat submersible (DCS) program, and dry deck shelter (DDS)/SSGN replacement studies.

SWCS is a new wet sub-mersible program (SWCS Block I) capable of operating from an existing DDS and will replace the legacy SEAL deliv-ery vehicle. The SWCS will be able to operate from future large ocean interfaces or sur-face ships and will provide the capability to conduct undersea missions in support of theater and national taskings. The primary method of launch and recovery will be from a DDS on board a host submarine, but alternative methods are available. The SWCS program completed three key accom-plishments in 2012: a prelimi-nary design review, a software critical design review, and the fit checking of a full-scale model of the SWCS vehicle inside a mock-up for the DDS.

SOCOM has a long-term goal to develop and field an affordable dry submersible system. The DCS program is commencing in the technol-ogy development phase with

two user operational evalua-tion system (UOES) commer-cial prototype submersibles. Both UOES submersibles are currently under construc-tion. After delivery, the UOES submersibles will commence developmental and operational testing. SOCOM will use the prototype designs and test results to plan a DCS acquisi-tion program to begin in late fiscal year 2015, with lead system construction to com-mence in FY16.

sUrfaCe moBiLity Programs

Surface mobility programs include the Naval Special Warfare rigid inflatable boat (NSW RIB), special opera-tions craft-riverine, patrol boat-light, maritime craft air deployment system, security force assistance craft and combatant craft forward look-ing infrared systems as well as a variety of related subsys-tems.

Surface mobility pro-grams are managed by the Program Manager Surface Systems (PMSS) office. PMSS has cradle-to-grave manage-ment responsibility for in-service NAVSPECWARCOM combatant craft systems. PMSS duties include pro-gram acquisition strategy and planning; decision risk analysis; scheduling; funding profiles; resource allocation throughout the planning, programming, budgeting and execution system; design and engineering; produc-tion; fielding; and systems integration. The office also explores the commercial market for new technolo-gies, foreign technologies and non-developmental items that offer innovative alterna-tives for current and future acquisitions. The PMSS staff

has the inherent capability to manage systems acquisition for engineering, procurement, program control, configura-tion, test, manufacturing and integrated logistics sup-port. Currently, the office is responding to SOF require-ments for new, more capable combatant surface craft to replace legacy systems and meet future demands.

PMSS has three new acquisition programs in the next year: the combatant craft assault (CCA), the SEAL inser-tion observation and neu-tralization (SEALION), and the combatant craft medium (CCM) MK1. The CCA pro-gram is the interim platform solution that will bridge the gap between the phasing out of the NSW RIB and the intro-duction of the CCM into the SOF inventory. The SEALION will provide a specialized infiltration, insertion, extrac-tion and exfiltration in sup-port of SOF core tasks. The CCM MK1 program will replace the legacy NSW RIB at the end of its service life. Additionally, it will function as an interim replacement for the MK V special operations craft. The CCM MK1 will be a multi-role surface combatant craft with the primary mission of inserting and extracting SOF in low-to-medium threat environments. CCM MK1 is envisioned as an essential step in providing a modern, clan-destine, agile, adaptive and operationally capable mari-time craft as a force multiplier within the SOF structure.

additionaL roLes

PEO-M actively partici-pates in small business innova-tion research, joint capability technology demonstrations, and special operations special technology processes, which


are administered by SORDAC’s Directorate of Science and

Technology. To fulfill these requirements, PEO-M serves

as an interface among the end user, doctrinal proponent,

developer, test evaluator and the SOCOM staff.

Program exeCUtive offiCe for sPeCiaL reConnaissanCe, sUrveiLLanCe and exPLoitation

Douglas J. Richardson, senior executive service, leads the Program Executive Office for Special Recon-naissance, Surveillance and Exploitation (PEO-SRSE). This PEO is responsible for the acquisition, fielding and sustainment of intelligence systems for special opera-tions forces that contribute directly to SOCOM priorities to deter, disrupt and defeat terrorist threats and sustain and modernize the force in persistent intelligence, sur-veillance and reconnaissance (ISR). The current and pro-jected threats to our national security continue to evolve in response to the increased technological sophistica-tion and effectiveness of our fielded capabilities. PEO-SRSE acquisition strategies have evolved as well—relying primarily on innovative contracting approaches, robust systems engineer-ing processes, evolutionary technology insertions and a prudent balance of cost, schedule and performance requirements.

PEO-SRSE’s broadly scoped system acquisition responsibilities include technical collection, intelligence support and identity operations, sup-ported by a uniquely organic and focused research and development program. Responsiveness, with tech-nical depth and program management excellence, is accomplished through product line expert matrix support of SRSE program managers.

tagging, traCking and LoCating systems

Tagging, tracking and locating systems and enabling technologies provide SOF with critical tools to enhance situational awareness for the planning and execution of SOF missions. These capabilities allow SOF to find, fix, exploit and analyze targets, such as enemy personnel and mobil-ity platforms, through the emplacement of sophisticated tagging and tracking devices that feed into an integrated command and control archi-tecture. The fielded portfolio of tagging/tracking, close-target audio and video tracking, opti-cal tracking and close-target reconnaissance systems is con-tinuously adapted and updated to meet dynamic SOF opera-tional requirements across all theaters of operation.

sensor systems

The Tactical Video System/Reconnaissance Surveillance Target Acquisi-tion (TVS/RSTA) program provides systems in support of ground ISR that equip SOF with enhanced stand-off capabilities for both manned and unmanned special recon-naissance missions. Capa-bilities within the portfolio range from man-in-the-loop still/video cameras and data transmission devices to fully automated, program-mable unattended and remote ground sensors and obser-vation posts emplaced by SOF operators that support

information and intelligence-gathering operations. The austere location force protec-tion kit provides a mobile, scalable and modular solution in support of village stability operations missions, increas-ing situational awareness of surrounding areas. Operations planning and decision-making capabilities are further enhanced with real-time and near real-time capture and transfer of imagery and data and state-of-the-art informa-tion display and processing to support rapid, seamless

transition from “find” to “fix” within a mission cycle.

BiometriCs and forensiCs systems

Biometrics and forensics system equipment provides SOF with the capability to efficiently collect, examine and exploit sensitive sites while performing timely labora-tory analysis of evidence in the theater of operation. Biometric tools are also used to gather and store informa-tion on captured combatants


and other persons of interest and to verify the identities of local nationals seeking employment or access to for-eign and domestic bases and installations. The collection of forensic evidence with the identity verification of person-nel detained onsite produce actionable intelligence that expedites SOF decision-mak-ing processes on the ground. Exploitation analysis centers are an in-theater mobile foren-sic capability that provides advanced forensic analysis of evidence collected onsite.

Joint threat Warning system

The Joint Threat Warn-ing System (JTWS) provides SOF with a family of signals intelligence (SIGINT) systems that enable SOF operators to provide their operational com-manders with direct and

applicable force protection, threat warning, target identi-fication and enhanced situa-tional awareness information. The JTWS family of systems is configured into four variants:

• GroundSIGINTKit,

a lightweight mobile/body-worn and team-transportable static system with remoting and reach-back capability configurations for SOF ground forces;

• Air, which provides SIGINT equipment for the Air Force Special Operations Command;

• Precisiongeo-location, a SIGINT system that provides accurate locations for various signals of interest; and

• Maritime, which provides situational awareness information for the SOF MK V patrol boat.

JTWS uses an evolution-ary acquisition strategy with spiral development based on the latest improvements in technology.

JTWS provides systems that are integrated and, as a result, a single interface controls multiple capabili-ties. It has common software; therefore, the program develops solutions once and then exports those solutions to all variants. Because it is upgradable, JTWS eliminates stovepipes and delivers a new software/hardware system that works in the existing envi-ronment. JTWS is scalable, allowing operators to task/organize equipment based on mission and anticipated signal environment. Additionally, JTWS addresses power and weight challenges by using low-weight, alternative power sources and busing conformal antennas and wireless devices.

distriBUted Common groUnd/sUrfaCe system–sPeCiaL oPerations forCes

Distributed Common Ground/Surface System–SOF (DCGS-SOF) provides a globally responsive, broad set of end-to-end fixed site command, control, com-munications, computers and intelligence (C4I) and mobile/tactical tasking, processing, exploitation and dissemina-tion (TPED) capabilities for SOF-collected ISR data. DCGS-SOF is a system of systems integrated across the SOF information environ-ment and with DoD DCGS. It is focused on developing solutions that will satisfy both current and future special operations-peculiar capabil-ity gaps and provide essential organic net-centric, collabora-tive and distributed ISR TPED capabilities for SOF.

DCGS-SOF will enable SOF to take full advantage of all available strategic, theater and tactical ISR data and exploitation support systems. It is being developed and implemented as part of the DoD DCGS family of systems and evolving joint network-centric enterprise. DoD DCGS is the processing and exploita-tion component of the ISR enterprise. Key to this capa-bility is the mandated DCGS integration backbone, which provides a common standard technical infrastructure to enable required joint inte-gration and interoperability across DoD.

integrated sUrvey Program

The Integrated Survey Program (ISP) supports Joint Chiefs of Staff contingency

Afghan National Army special forces and coalition special operations forces distribute candy, art and school supplies, and hand-crank radios to the children and families during a presence patrol. The forces visited three villages in the area to distribute items and ask about the living conditions and needs of the villagers. [Photo courtesy of DoD]


planning by conducting com-prehensive technical surveys worldwide where U.S. citizens or national interests may be at risk. The ISP surveys produce detailed tactical planning data on high-threat locations and supply the necessary informa-tion to support operational planners in formulating their tactical plans to conduct per-missive or non-permissive evacuations and/or hostage res-cue missions. The ISP supports the short-notice, quick turn-around of critical operational planning data during ongoing crises and contingency opera-tions. The program consists of two subsystems: data survey system (DSS) and production system (PS). DSS consists of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and government off-the-shelf (GOTS) software and hardware that comprise items such as digital still and video cameras, laptops, global posi-tioning systems, rangefinders and common software applica-tions. PS consists of integrated COTS and GOTS applications and hardware fielded to the SOCOM Intelligence Direc-torate. The ISP production responsibilities are in part delegated under the DoD Intel-ligence Production Program.

CoUnter-ProLiferation anaLysis and PLanning system

The Counter-proliferation Analysis and Planning System (CAPS) program produces engineering assessments of hostile nation and non-state

actor weapons of mass destruc-tion (WMD) programs, facilities and activities. Assessments address DoD priorities and are used in ongoing updates to DoD contingency plans to counter WMD threats. These assessments leverage engineering competencies to analyze proliferators’ weapons production capabilities and processes at multiple levels, identify detectable signatures of proliferation, and commu-nicate information to decision-making agencies through DoD’s computer architecture. Assessments are continuously updated to retain relevancy and support contingency plan-ning. The CAPS program sup-ports DoD and partner agency activities to understand and categorize WMD proliferation activities at multiple levels throughout the world.

sPeCiaL oPerations forCes PLanning, rehearsaL and exeCUtion PreParation

Special Operations Forces Planning, Rehearsal and Execu-tion Preparation (SOFPREP) provides enhanced geospatial intelligence data and 3-D scene visualization databases to support SOF operators worldwide. As a focal point for the gathering of sophisti-cated geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) source data and the generation of databases, SOF-PREP integrates applications to support SOF mission and training preparation systems. GOTS/COTS systems acquire

and consolidate elevation, feature, maps, imagery and other source data required for database production. Systems validate the geospatial accuracy and certify the use of data in the completed databases and datasets. GEOINT and 3-D scene visualizations are also archived for use in contingency planning, humanitarian assis-tance and response to natural disasters. Geo-specific training databases use common data-base, Medallion, and VITAL formats for SOF simulators. SOFPREP helps SOF units set the course and understand the area of operations before they get there.

teChniCaL sUPPort systems

The Technical Support Systems Office acquires and sustains common items and supporting systems and ser-vices that have application across the entire PEO-SRSE product portfolio. These enabling capabilities include data dissemination architec-tures, integration facilities, power and antenna subsystems, cabling, concealments, min-iaturization and anti-tamper measures. PEO-SRSE also oversees and manages the identification and leveraging of critical enabling technolo-gies under its Rapid Capabil-ity Insertion Program Office, which include Tactical Exploi-tation of National Capabilities (TENCAP), Special Reconnais-sance Capabilities (SRC) and Clandestine Tagging, Tracking and Locating (CTTL) programs.

The key to PEO-SRSE’s success in this area is constant contact with the user and acquisi-tion communities of interest, including their involvement in project selection and transition planning.

The TENCAP program is an intelligence systems R&D rapid prototyping effort focused on national and commercial space systems. TENCAP seeks to improve the combat effec-tiveness of SOF operators by leveraging service and national agency development efforts on space-based intelligence and communications technologies and systems.

The SRC program identi-fies, integrates and operational-izes new capabilities to perform persistent surveillance and clandestine preparation of the battlespace against a variety of targets and mission require-ments. SRC develops and delivers unattended ground sensors and other TTL systems to satisfy SOF operator-defined capability gaps.

The CTTL program exploits emerging technologies to locate and track targets or items of interest. CTTL is a sci-ence and technology develop-ment and prototyping program that is unique in its focus on SOF operator-defined capabil-ity gaps and selection of highly promising technology solu-tions.

TENCAP, SRC and CTTL resource the foundation of future capabilities that will transition into PEO-SRSE-managed programs of record as evolutionary technology insertions.

Program exeCUtive offiCe for Command, ControL, CommUniCations and ComPUters

Anthony J. Davis leads the Program Executive Office for Command, Control,

Communications and Com-puters (PEO-C4). PEO-C4 manages the research,

development, acquisition, fielding and sustainment of C4 systems that collectively form

the SOF information environ-ment (SIE). The SIE is an extension of the Department of


Defense network that provides additional special operations-peculiar capabilities and extends those capabilities to remote, austere locations. It allows garrison and tacti-cal special operations forces users to reach back to access national assets, allowing SOF elements to operate with any force combination in multiple environments.

PEO-C4’s portfolio consists of 16 programs with a budget of over $3.7 billion across the Future Years Defense Plan. It includes three primary capability areas: 1) enterprise networks, 2) transport systems and 3) tactical communica-tions.

PEO-C4 will continue to focus on the integration of state-of-the-art technologies and standardization through-out the SOF community. An additional priority includes ensuring voice, video, data and services—regardless of the source—can be prop-erly accessed, processed and stored, and made available immediately to worldwide SOF users through enterprise services. PEO-C4’s efforts emphasize the utilization of commercial off-the-shelf prod-ucts and the leveraging of DoD and other government agency programs to supplement SOF capabilities.

enterPrise netWorks

The Enterprise Networks division is responsible for designing, acquiring, fielding and sustaining the garrison and tactical network automa-tion infrastructure systems. The division manages five programs: Special Operations Command Research, Analysis, and Threat Evaluation System (SOCRATES), C4 and Intel-ligence Automation Systems

(C4IAS), Media Production Center (MPC), MISO-Print (MISOP), and Civil Informa-tion Management Data Pro-cessing System (CIMDPS).

The SOCRATES program is the SOF extension of the Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System (JWICS) network and is used to develop, acquire and sup-port garrison automated intelligence system require-ments for SOF organizations worldwide.

The C4IAS program is the SOF extension of the Non-Secure Internet Proto-col Router (NIPR) network and Secure Internet Protocol Router (SIPR) network, and it is used to acquire and support garrison command, control, and collaboration require-ments for SOF organizations worldwide.

The MPC program is part of the military information support operations (MISO) capability to develop, produce, distribute and disseminate MISO products to overseas target audiences. It provides fixed and deployable multi-media production and editing capabilities with options for imagery, audio, animation and audio/video products of varying degrees of technical complexity and operational responsiveness.

The MISOP program con-sists of a family of systems for creating, editing and produc-ing MISO printed materials. It consists of four variants with varying print volume and deployable capabilities as determined by mission requirements.

The CIMDPS program provides an automation capability to assist active civil affairs and others engaged in civil/military operations to collect, process, analyze, maintain, mine, and deliver

civil information and analysis products in support of mili-tary operations.

The Enterprise Networks programs are an important contributor to realizing some of the SOCOM chief informa-tion officer’s key initiatives for efficient and effective delivery of enterprise services to all SOF users worldwide, including consolidation of services to reduce total own-ership costs. The programs operate in an evolutionary technology insertion mode through incremental develop-ment, acquisition and imple-mentation of next-generation technology solutions.

transPort systems

The Transport Systems Division is responsible for developing, acquiring, field-ing and sustaining the SIE transport systems. It manages five programs: SOF Deploy-able Node (SDN), Product Distribution System (PDS), Joint Base Station/Radio Integration System (JBS/RIS), Tactical Local Area Network (TACLAN), and Scampi.

The SDN program fields scalable wideband satel-lite (SATCOM) command and control (C2) packages to support the employment and deployment of SOF operational elements ranging from liaison and pilot teams through Combined Joint Spe-cial Operations Task Forces. Access to the SIE is provided by tri-band or quad-band SAT-COM antennas that include very small aperture terminals, international maritime satel-lite broadband global area network packages, microsat-ellite terminals, beyond line and line-of-sight extension capabilities, and the mobile SOF strategic entry point. Basebands provide access to

unclassified and classified enclaves that support voice, data, video teleconferencing and full motion video access. Variants include specific intel-ligence support terminals and SATCOM-on-the-move for ground mobile, maritime and airborne platforms.

The PDS program pro-vides the SATCOM transport path for the worldwide MISO architecture. PDS consists of fixed, heavy, medium and light internet protocol pres-ence variants. Each variant is used at different levels of command, from the media operations complex to the tactical MISO teams, to link planners with review/approval authorities, production facili-ties and dissemination ele-ments.

The JBS/RIS program interfaces, enhances and com-bines multiple single-channel radios into one integrated C2 suite. JBS/RIS consists of a full-scaled deployable transit case variant, a deployable downsized transit case vari-ant, and a fixed-base station variant. All variants are capa-ble of integrating existing and future radios and are compli-ant with the Joint Tactical Radio System. The variants will enable the SOF opera-tional commander to exercise reliable, effective and efficient C2 functions regardless of area of operation. Moreover, the system provides the SOF commander and staff with the capability to send and receive voice and data between the SOF operator and higher headquarters, liaison officers, coalition partners and other government agencies.

The TACLAN program is the tactical equivalent to gar-rison NIPR, SIPR and JWICS infrastructure and equip-ment. It is used primarily to develop, acquire and support


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tactical command, control and collaboration require-ments for SOF operational commanders and forward deployed forces. The program consists of suites, mission planning kits, field comput-ing devices, coalition local area network segments, and full motion video kits.

The Scampi program is the telecommunications system that enables garrison and deployed SOF to access the SIE. It provides real-time voice, data, full motion video and video teleconferencing capabilities on various clas-sification levels for all SOF. Scampi provides the ability to disseminate informa-tion between SOCOM, SOF deployed forces, component commands and major subor-dinate units, theater special operations commands, and selected government agencies and activities directly associ-ated with SOF.

taCtiCaL CommUniCations

The Tactical Communica-tions Division is responsible for acquiring, fielding and sustaining the tactical

communications segment of the SIE. These tactical com-munications systems provide the critical C2 link between SOF commanders and SOF teams deployed globally. They also provide interoper-ability with all services, vari-ous government agencies, air traffic control, commercial agencies and coalition forces, allowing SOF to operate with any force combination in multiple environments. The division manages seven pro-grams: Blue Force Tracking, Joint Tactical C4I Transceiver System, SOF Tactical Com-munications, Mobile Com-puting Initiative, Advanced Special Operations Manage-ment System, Fly-Away Broadcast System, and Next-Generation Loudspeaker System.

The Blue Force Tracking program is a family of devices used to remotely track and monitor friendly forces and enhance C2, threat warning, force protection, situational awareness, battlefield visu-alization, counter-fratricide, combat search and rescue, and combat identification.

The Joint Tactical C4I Transceiver System program

is a family of intelligence, surveillance and reconnais-sance receivers that receive full motion video from a wide variety of unmanned aircraft systems for all platforms and dismounted soldiers.

The SOF Tactical Com-munications program pro-vides next-generation SOF communication systems (handheld, man-pack, high frequency, and individual radios). Capabilities include real time, hostile and friendly force information, line of sight and beyond line of sight communications, and access to situational awareness in the form of intelligence inputs, broadcasts and net-works.

The Mobile Computing Initiative program provides a seamless environment where the user is able to work and be productive on the SIE, whether in the office or on an operation, without affect-ing any of the forces’ abili-ties to conduct business and accomplish the mission by providing devices, tools and applications.

The Advanced Special Operations Management Sys-tem program is a software/

hardware package developed for gathering and disseminat-ing operational information in support of multi-spectrum special operations. The pack-age allows SOF to gather, analyze and report informa-tion quickly and easily to accomplish the mission.

The Fly-Away Broadcast System program provides a modular and highly deploy-able radio and television broadcasting system able to transmit on a wide range of frequencies and spectrums, including AM, FM, SW, VHF and UHF, and in both digi-tal and analog formats with software-defined radio tech-nology.

The Next-Generation Loudspeaker System (NGLS) program is a family of loudspeaker variants, each optimized for a specific oper-ational environment, which can transmit live or recorded audio messages to diverse sets of target audiences in a variety of tactical environ-ments. The NGLS program team has fielded three loud-speaker variants: NGLS-D (Dismounted), NGLS-M (Mounted) and Scatterable Media.

Program exeCUtive offiCe for sPeCiaL oPerations forCes sUPPort aCtivity

Army Colonel Timothy D. Chyma leads the Program Executive Office for Special Operations Forces Support Activity (PEO-SOFSA) based out of Bluegrass Station in Lexington, Ky. PEO-SOFSA is responsible for executing SOCOM’s largest service con-tract vehicle, which provides a wide range of tailored contrac-tor logistics support services to the command’s special opera-tions forces service compo-nents and operators worldwide.

Their mission is to support the SOF community through the execution of contracting, financial management and operations oversight to ensure dedicated, responsive and cost-effective contractor logistics support services. PEO-SOFSA partners with both the SOF operator and the SOFSA prime contractor to ensure best value logistics services and products are being provided to meet the mission-critical, time-sensitive needs of the SOF community.

PEO-SOFSA awarded more than $520 million in fiscal year 2012 funds to meet cur-rent and future Department of Defense logistics requirements. PEO-SOFSA oversaw the exe-cution of more than 250 task orders during this timeframe, with the majority of work in support of aviation repair/modification, logistics teams, life cycle sustainment man-agement (LCSM) and supply/warehousing. Any DoD orga-nization may use the SOFSA

contract for their LCSM needs. For the 10th consecutive year, the amount of SOF funded efforts outpaced the number of non-SOF funded programs, accounting for approximately 85 percent of the fiscal year total workload.

The SOFSA indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract offers the full spec-trum of services recognized under the elements of LCSM and includes design interface; sustaining engineering; supply


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support; maintenance planning and management; packaging, handling, storage and trans-portation; technical data; sup-port equipment; training and training support; manpower and personnel; facilities and infrastructure; and computer resources. In addition, the SOFSA manages nearly 2 mil-lion square feet of administra-tive, production and storage space as well as 3.8 million units of property valued in excess of $2.5 billion.

Examples of SOFSA work performed today include

MH-60M kits and aircraft pro-duction; A/MH-6 repairs and modifications; MH-47G modifi-cations; C-130 refurbishments; International Organization for Standardization inspections; family of special operations vehicles modifications and maintenance support; deploy-ment of logistics support teams worldwide; SOF personal equip-ment advanced requirements supply operations; and joint operational stock program sup-port. PEO-SOFSA oversees the contractor’s support to meeting all the contractual small

business goals, all of which were met or exceeded in 2012.

PEO-SOFSA completed the planning of significant facility upgrades and received approv-als from the state of Kentucky in 2012. These improvements will be accomplished in phases over the next three years and will enable the SOFSA to han-dle retrograde activities from Afghanistan and the already-growing SOFSA workload. To support its PEO customers, the team established the sus-tainment management divi-sion from existing manpower

resources and will concentrate on pre-award activities that are needed for long-term sustain-ment acumen and to build consistent processes for all customers. The improvements are designed to ensure PEO-SOFSA remains the center of excellence for SOF logisti-cal support and to provide a capability to rapidly meet SOF contractor logistics support service requirements when the service depots lack the capacity or responsiveness required for its mission taskings and readi-ness standards.

direCtorate of resoUrCes and anaLysis

Theodore W. Koufas leads the SORDAC Director-ate of Resources and Analysis (SORDAC-RA). Its mission is to improve the ability of the acquisition executive, program executive officers, directors and program managers to modern-ize and sustain special opera-tions forces. The directorate

is composed of two divisions: Acquisition Policy and Analy-sis and the Technology and Industry Liaison Office/Office of Small Business Programs. The divisions are responsible for acquisition policy, program analysis and rapid acquisi-tion support; industry/small business interface; and center

tasking and development of strategic planning initiatives. SORDAC-RA also includes five staff elements: personnel/man-power support, security sup-port, system safety engineer/developmental test support, facilities support, and center tasking and operational sup-port. The staff elements provide

critical, specialized support, including workforce develop-ment; information security and operations security oversight; safety policies and guidance support; center facilities maintenance and modification activities oversight; and center taskings (internal and external) and other operational support.

Joint aCqUisition task forCe-agiLe dagger

Jack J. Duran leads the Joint Acquisition Task Force-Agile Dagger (JATF-AD), an organization specifically designed and chartered to pro-vide rapid and agile acquisition support to address emergent, in-theater capability caps. JATF-AD has a varied portfolio; the team’s support ranges from providing in-theater repair and modification for special opera-tions forces to the evaluation and development of new tech-nologies.

moBiLe teChnoLogy and rePair ComPLex

This effort provides forward deployed forces the ability to rapidly react to battlefield

needs in hours—when it counts the most. During fis-cal year 2012, the number of mobile technology and repair complex (MTRC) locations increased from eight to 13. DoD civilian engineers and contractor technicians, trained in a wide variety of craftsman’s skills, completed more than 400 creative modifications and 1,800 work order repairs and maintenance of equipment at the point of need. They per-formed admirably and with great impact, despite an austere and hostile environment. As the knowledge of this capability has spread across the theater, it is being requested by special mission operations command-ers and redirected within the

theater to meet those unique needs. MTRC teams have received laudatory comments from the field for the support they have provided.

sPeCiaL aPPLiCations for ContingenCy

The Special Applications for Contingency (SAFC) collaborates with various program executive offices and components to develop pay-loads that address critical gaps. During FY12, the team devel-oped a payload for the Puma unmanned aircraft system; it has performed exceptionally well during testing and user evaluations, and two compo-nents will receive equipment in

2013. SAFC is now developing a ground variant of the payload and will demonstrate capabil-ity late next year. The team is also developing high-definition payloads that will support more than one class of UAS. SAFC is integrating multiple payloads onto a Shadow UAS in support of the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Program Office, with testing scheduled for completion sometime in 2013.

Uav fLight demonstrations (maveriCk)

This effort provides for the maintenance, flying and aircraft modification to support


customer-provided payloads, and the engineering and inte-gration necessary to support developmental data gather-ing and evaluations. JATF-AD provides airframe integration support, as required, to mount, power and control systems including camera, radar, weap-ons, radio, sensor systems, and components such as camera controllers/optics sensors and communications systems into manned and unmanned plat-forms.

During FY12, the Maverick system continued to be a valu-able asset to the hostile fire indicator system (HFIS) com-munity and PEO-Rotary Wing. In HFIS events, the Maverick UAS is integrated with HFIS sensors, and in a precise, mea-sured environment, is targeted for proximity fire from a variety of foreign weapons that may be encountered by manned vertical take-off and landing assets in theater. Much closer miss distances are achiev-able with the Maverick UAS versus manned aircraft, giving the sensor developers a more robust test of their equipment.

The Maverick system team completed a couple of key deployments/demonstra-tions, including Rotorcraft Aircraft Survivability Equip-ment Experiment, which is an Office of the Secretary of Defense experiment, chartered to advance HFIS technology. They also conducted BlackDart Counter-UAS Experiment, at Point Mugu Naval Air Station,

in August 2012. BlackDart is a DoD-wide experiment designed to demonstrate and assess counter UASs. Maverick was the first rotary wing UAS air-craft to participate in a Black-Dart event. The Maverick Team has been asked to return for the BlackDart 2013 event.

kiBosh non-LethaL WeaPons

This program was initi-ated, in coordination with PEO-SOF Warrior, to fulfill

a joint SOF requirement to stop vehicles or remove personnel from enclosed spaces by providing a 40 mm delivery round and various non-lethal payloads. In FY12, the program successfully designed, developed and tested the Kibosh type-S delivery round for a secondary target set. During this timeframe, the program also developed and tested non-lethal light, electro-muscular disruption, sound, marking and obscu-ration payloads. JATF-AD

conducted assessments of two primary vendors; payload capabilities were identified and prioritized to meet cus-tomer needs, and testing eval-uations and user assessments were conducted at various government and contractor facilities. Assessments encom-passed round and payload performance when fired from an M203-class 40 mm grenade launcher. Based on these assessments, one vendor was chosen to proceed to the next round of development.

direCtorate of sCienCe and teChnoLogy

Lisa R. Sanders leads SORDAC’s Directorate of Sci-ence and Technology (SOR-DAC-ST). Its mission is to develop the technologies and new capabilities needed by the special operations forces

operator. SORDAC-ST contin-ues to pursue concepts and technologies that energize a “think ahead, push forward” approach to supporting SOF through development of technology roadmaps

coordinated with program executive offices, component commands and SOF user community support, and through maintained research and development collabora-tion with international

partners. SOCOM, inherently joint in all it does, is in a unique position to leverage and apply service and depart-ment S&T efforts to field new and improved capabilities on the battlefield.

Students in sea air and land qualification training navigate the surf off the coast of Coronado during a maritime operations training exercise. The 26-week program takes students from a very basic level, to a more advanced degree of technical and tactical operations. The Navy SEALs are the maritime component of U.S. special operations forces and are trained to conduct a variety of operations from the sea, air and land. [Photo courtesy of DoD]


s&t organization—sUPPorting the sof oPerator

SORDAC-ST has aligned the directorate to provide bet-ter linkage between technol-ogy discovery, S&T support and SOF material acquisition efforts. SORDAC-ST supports SOCOM’s new strategic plan-ning process through the iden-tification of transformational technological opportunities and/or technology refresh for insertion into ongoing pro-grams of record to support the SOCOM commander’s lines of operations priorities, opera-tional concepts, and capabilities development. SORDAC-ST also manages SOCOM’s small business innovation research (SBIR) projects, international partnerships and technical experimentation, and supports the DoD foreign comparative testing, defense acquisition challenge and rapid innovative fund programs. This organi-zational structure provides increased levels of S&T engi-neering expertise to respond to high-priority, unforeseen and/or time-sensitive emerging requirements.

s&t Priorities

Operational enhancements focus on rapidly inserting new technologies and capabili-ties into the battlefield; these enhancements take hardware and software items and adapt, modify, integrate and assess their ability to rapidly meet SOF operational needs. Acqui-sition programs transition equipment and capabilities from successful S&T projects; SORDAC provides them to the SOF operator.

SORDAC-ST has imple-mented a collaborative tech-nology development process through the Special Operations

Advanced Technology Col-laborative. This development aligns the SOF Prioritized-Integrated Gap List with technology enablers and devel-opers, focuses ongoing efforts across the S&T enterprise, and identifies additional innova-tion required to address these gaps. Many organizations’ R&D activities often overlap SOF interests—this new process improves coordination and collaboration among various research organizations to effi-ciently deliver technology to overcome SOCOM’s technology challenges.

Through comprehensive technology assessments, SOR-DAC-ST assesses SOF’s criti-cal capability and technology needs and develops strategies to meet them. SORDAC-ST has now focused on increas-ing its pursuit of a technology development strategy for the mid-to-far term (three to 20 years). SOCOM, as a combatant command, develops an annual S&T integrated priority list that outlines its broader capabil-ity needs to the DoD research and engineering community. SORDAC-ST is coordinating with SOCOM PEOs and compo-nent and theater special opera-tions commands to develop advanced visual augmentation systems, lasers and beacons; improved SOF comprehen-sive signature management; scalable effects weapons and improved precision munitions; anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) technologies; energy and power improvements for SOF; advanced antennas, commu-nications networks and trans-mission capabilities; mobility platform improvements; and sensors, including tagging, tracking and locating (TTL) technologies and systems.

SORDAC-ST develops, coordinates and integrates technology roadmaps with each

SOCOM PEO to improve the ability to select, manage and transition projects funded by core research, SBIRs, through leveraged funds from external organizations and interna-tional project arrangements. These roadmaps guide SOCOM resourcing to meet multiple SOF requirements, critical gaps, and needs while increas-ing the potential for technology transitions.

teChniCaL exPerimentation and demonstrations

SORDAC-ST continues to sponsor tactical network testbed (TNT) events conduct-ing technical experimentation to provide focus for industry’s emerging technologies and capabilities to support SOF. Technical experimentation cre-ates synergy among industry partners and academia and connects SOF operators to developers.

Demonstrations showcase SOF-related technologies, assess military utility and help develop complementary con-cepts of operations. Demonstra-tions often leverage resources from different sponsors and serve to accelerate technology insertions into acquisition pro-grams. SORDAC-ST is an active participant in the DoD’s joint capability technology demon-stration program and also con-ducts independent advanced technology demonstrations.

smaLL BUsiness innovation researCh

SORDAC-ST manages SOCOM’s SBIR program, which supports the full spectrum of the directorate’s high-priority commodity areas. The SBIR program stimulates technology innovation in small businesses,

awarding contracts to discover, develop and rapidly insert new capabilities to solve SOF needs. SORDAC-ST awarded 25 SBIR Phase I/II efforts in fiscal year 2012 and plans to award 30 Phase I/II SBIR efforts in FY13.

internationaL CaPaBiLities deveLoPment

SORDAC’s International Capability Development Office collaborates with special operations foreign partners on the development of special operations-peculiar capabilities. Considering approved require-ments, equipment moderniza-tion and technology challenges, the office’s objective is to syn-chronize efforts through the synergistic combination of the collective technical experience, talent and resources to provide the world’s best capability for our respective SOF. SOCOM’s international efforts focus on more mature technologies that can become rapid capability insertions, leveraging partner nation R&D capacity through mutual collaboration.

ComParative teChnoLogy offiCe

The SOCOM Comparative Technology Office is respon-sible for three congressionally mandated research, develop-ment test and evaluation programs that test and field mature defense technology to SOF: foreign comparative testing, defense acquisition challenge and rapid innovative fund.

CaPaBiLity transition

SORDAC’s top priorities are to support the commander’s lines of operations: Win the current fight through timely,


tailored and effective support of SOF critical and urgent needs; expand the global SOF network by expanding the necessary SOF global infrastructure and capabilities in synchronization with theater special operations command evolution; preserve the force/families by provid-ing solutions which preserve the force and families; and Provide responsive resourcing by implementing new ways to improve responsiveness to the SOF enterprise. SORDAC-ST is working closely with the SOF user community, PEOs and the Joint Acquisition Task Force to provide a more rapid, success-ful transition of technologies into acquisition programs of record. SORDAC-ST will serve as the enabler for the center to fulfill future SOF operator needs, and it is well positioned to support the future strategic vision by aligning longer-term technology development efforts with capabilities needed for that future state.

direCtorate of aCqUisition ComPtroLLer

Margaret A. Iverson leads the SORDAC Directorate of Acquisition Comptroller (SORDAC-AC), a flexible, surge-capable organization dedicated to supporting the procurement, delivery and sustainment of SO-peculiar equipment from cradle to grave. The directorate pre-pares all acquisition budget submissions, analyzes the organization’s financial health and reports trends, and rec-ommends funding-related

courses of action to the acquisition executive, pro-gram executive officers and directors. SORDAC-AC also oversees the development, integration and presenta-tion of briefings to congres-sional staffers and reviews all congressional requests for information (RFIs) to ensure financial aspects and programmatic impacts are considered.

In FY12, the director-ate managed a “checkbook”

worth $4.1 billion, processed more than 5,000 financial documents in support of the day-to-day mission, and supported the development, submission and defense of SOCOM’s FY13 president’s budget request. There has been a renewed emphasis on automated processes, both updating existing systems like the financial execution mod-ule and creating new tools for tracking cost of doing busi-ness and the congressional

RFIs. Future enhancements include an automated funds distribution and tracking sys-tem as well as an automated calculation and reporting of new travel and services caps. Portal-based visual management tools provide all stakeholders visibility and transparency into financial management processes that enable the center to accom-plish its mission of providing SO-peculiar equipment and materials to the SOF operator.

aCqUisition serviCes

Air Force Lieutenant Col-onel Douglas W. Roth leads SORDAC’s Services Acquisi-tion Management Office

(SAMO). The office provides the SOCOM commander and acquisition executive an innovative approach to

improve the efficiency and oversight in the administra-tion of all SOCOM service contracts. Additionally, the

office supports SOCOM, component commands and theater special operations commands with services

A Marine special operations team member assists with security while Afghan local police receive their first payments in Helmand province, Afghanistan,. Afghan local police complement counterinsurgency efforts by assisting and supporting rural areas with limited Afghan National Security Forces presence, in order to enable conditions for improved security, governance and development. [Photo courtesy of U.S. Marine Corps]


acquisition training, require-ments documentation, policy and process oversight, and contract administration sup-port to requiring activities.

SAMO focuses on the effective and efficient man-agement of over $1.5 billion spent each year on con-tracted services in support of special operations forces.

The acquisition profession-als in the office coordinate with requiring activities throughout the command to ensure scarce special opera-tions resources are used in the most effective manner to acquire contracted services in support of the war fight-ing mission. SAMO personnel work side-by-side with the

requiring activities’ points of contact across the enter-prise to ensure contracted services requirements are clearly articulated to support the most optimal acquisition strategy.

By exercising the services acquisition senior manager’s responsibilities for gover-nance in planning, execution,

strategic sourcing and man-agement of service contracts, SAMO collects and reports on all data required to provide visibility of services contracts to SOCOM’s commander and acquisition executive, the Office of the Secretary of Defense and ultimately to Congress, as required under public law.

J4/direCtorate of LogistiCs

Navy Captain Brian M. Goodwin leads the J4/Directorate of Logistics in planning, coordinating, syn-chronizing and integrating operational and strategic logistics and sustainment strategy in coordination with and in support of the unified commands, services, compo-nents, theater special opera-tions commands (TSOCs), joint staff and other govern-ment agencies.

The key J4 logistics func-tions routinely performed for special operations forces include:

• Joint property book asset accountability, asset visibility, availability and acquisition life cycle systems management

• Rapidly deploying materiel/equipment, including bare base construction

• Resolving issues with acquisition of SO-peculiar equipment/materiel and approving sustainment plan/cataloging strategy in the fielding and deployment releases

• Monitoring equipment readiness/preparedness in the defense readiness reporting system

• Developing, coordinating and implementing

SO-peculiar logistics plans, policy and strategy

• Coordinating planning and execution of logistics support to SOF exercises and operations

• Providing multi-national planning and coordination for equipment/logistics support with allies and partner nations through the acquisition cross-servicing agreements program

• Supporting rapid acquisition via life cycle/sustainment expertise

• Generating logistics policy/doctrine/guidance to enable SOF relative superiority

• Maximizing value of Major Force Program-11 (MFP-11) by offering logistics solutions from the SOCOM enterprise perspective (all SOF assets available)

• Exploring opportunities to transition SO-peculiar equipment to service-common

• Maximizing use of service-provided logistics capability to enable SOF relative superiority

• Providing comprehensive materiel management SO-peculiar equipment

During the recent reor-ganization of SORDAC, the

Directorate of Logistics rein-tegrated into the center to reinforce the cradle-to-grave life cycle management under the acquisition executive in concert with DoD 5000 policy guidance. This re-integration streamlines acquisition and logistics functions and its processes while maximizing synergy within the head-quarters and promoting the creation of a SOF logistics enterprise.

sUstainment division materieL management

In August, the J4 and the Special Operation Forces Sup-port Activity (SOFSA) jointly hosted a first-ever roundtable with the components and TSOCs. The new bi-monthly meeting provides a venue for SOF logistics leaders to periodically interact with the SOFSA government staff and prime contractor. Topics included leveraging SOFSA capabilities, optimizing sup-port and strategically align-ing logistics issues necessary to implement the vision of a SOF-focused sustainment enterprise.

The Systems Integration Section undertook an aggres-sive process modeling and improvement study, which resulted in the elimination or

streamlining of seven logistics information system applica-tions into three. Overall data quality is being improved while system sustainment costs are projected to drop nearly $500,000.

The Joint Property Book Office’s (JPBO) primary mis-sion is to synchronize and coordinate worldwide MFP-11 equipment fielding. JPBO also provides logistics support, asset visibility and account-ability in support of approxi-mately 66,000 SOF personnel executing global contingency and garrison operations. The office is currently managing over 350,000 assets valued at $1.3 billion in support of SORDAC program executive offices. Since their standup in 2006, JPBO has fielded over 1 million pieces of equipment in excess of $20 billion.

Throughout the year, J4 has been a key participant in SOCOM’s campaign to achieve auditability. As a key participant in both the audit-ability operational planning teams (OPTs) and financial improvement and audit readi-ness, J4 has provided crucial analysis and manpower for both exploring a SOCOM-specific accountable property system of record (APSR) and FIAR Wave 3. J4 continues to work closely with the SOCOM finance team in Wave 3 capital


equipment existence and com-pleteness assessments of com-ponents to demonstrate asset accountability over assets in APSRs and identify processes, controls or system deficien-cies, and develop remediation plans.

SOCOM’s joint catalog sec-tion played a key role in multi-ple highly visible, high impact issues during the Depart-ment of the Army’s logistics enterprise migration. The cataloging team provided criti-cal DoD-level solutions and, through coordination with the Defense Logistics Agency and the Office of the Secretary of Defense Acquisition, Technol-ogy and Logistics, allowed the creation/redefinition of others. These solutions enabled the Department of the Army to meet their planned deploy-ment milestones, ensured the chain of custody of SOF, and solved issues of missing data elements for over 100,000 management control numbers and national stock numbers valued in excess of $2 billion.

The SOCOM Catalog-ing Section developed and authored SOCOM Directive 700-22, the first stand-alone cataloging regulation and guidance for SO-peculiar materiel. The 700-22 clearly and concisely outlines Title 10 responsibilities and establishes the foundation for primary inventory control activity and integrated materiel manager requirements within the fed-eral landscape. This document provides the primer for pro-visioning, logistical reassign-ments of SO-peculiar items to service-common use/adoption, and demilitarization/disposal requirements. It also provides the first public presence of SOCOM’s unique cataloging codes that translate within all four services and their logistics and authorization systems.

The J4 led the develop-ment of joint tables of allow-ance (JTA) for the newly established Special Operations Joint Task Force-Afghanistan and SOCOM’s headquarters, (HQ SOCOM) while also completing significant revi-sions to the JTAs for Special Operations Command Central, Special Operations Command Africa and Special Operations Command Pacific, which reflect recent priorities to expand the SOF global net-work.

Munitions provided pre-program objective memoran-dum (POM) 14 and post-POM 14 munitions sufficiency assessment reports to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the under secretary of defense acquisition, tech-nology and logistics, and the under secretary of defense special operations low

intensity conflict. The assess-ment reports identified out-year munitions shortfalls and mitigation plans.

J4 munitions made a major move at the start of the year by co-locating with the program manager for SOF warrior munitions. This allows for a synergistic approach to SOF munitions by centrally managing both procurement and sustainment munitions funds and ensures cradle-to-grave management.

The munitions team published the latest version of SOCOM Directive 700-8, Munitions Management. The purpose of the revision was to align D700-8 with SOCOM Directive 71-4, Special Opera-tions Forces Capabilities Inte-gration and Development Systems to ensure consistency of munitions requirements generation.

headqUarters sUPPort

The Installation Joint Property Book Office’s (I-JPBO) primary mission is to manage and maintain property account-ability for HQ SOCOM, assigned support elements and field operating agencies. I-JPBO cur-rently manages nearly 200 sub hand receipt holder accounts consisting of 80,000 pieces of equipment valued in excess of $180 million.

The Joint Supply Support Activity (JSSA) is the primary source of supply for Class II, IV, VII and IX material and func-tions including receipt, issue, storage, turn in and shipping. Acting as the HQ SOCOM cus-tomer interface, the JSSA uti-lized the Standard Army Retail Supply System-1 for process-ing and disposing over 2,800 assets. The JSSA is the first of

Pararescuemen from the 321st Special Tactics Squadron begin their 10,000-foot journey back to solid ground March 12, 2013, near Sculthorpe, England. The 321st STS conducted a week-long jump exercise to keep its members proficient in their ability to tactically insert into combat zones. In addition to their ability to conduct free-fall missions, pararescuemen are specially trained to conduct combat recovery operations in austere locations. [Photo courtesy of U.S. Air Force]


its kind in DoD. This pilot test was coordinated by JPBO with sponsorship from Headquarters Department of the Army, G4.

The central receiving issue supply point (CRISP) is HQ SOCOM’s central hub for receiv-ing, issuing, disposing and ship-ping of equipment procured by HQ SOCOM, TSOCs and DoD components. To date, the CRISP has received over 45,000 items of equipment valued at over $28 million. This section was partic-ularly instrumental in the initial stand up of SOJTF-Afghanistan by palletizing, coordinating and shipping equipment required to accomplish the mission.

Program sUPPort

The J4 Sustainment division manages 11 programs, annually valued at approximately $22 million, in support of the SOF operator. These programs are awarded and executed under the SOFSA contract, which is managed at Bluegrass Station, Lexington, Ky. The current SOFSA contract was awarded by HQ SOCOM in 2010, providing the full spectrum of logistics support to its many SOF cus-tomers. One of the most widely used J4 programs is the joint operational stocks effort, which is an $85 million pool of readily deployable assets for SOF mis-sions. All J4 programs of record involve materiel support and/

or personnel support to meet CONUS/OCONUS SOF mission needs.

aCqUisition and sUstainment BranCh

The Acquisition and Sus-tainment Branch (J4-SA) is responsible for the performance of independent assessments of life cycle sustainment, readi-ness, and supportability of SO-peculiar equipment and systems procured with MFP-11 funds. J4-SA assigns logisticians who provide direct interface with program executive offices, program offices, other SOCOM organizations, TSOCs, and components to support, sustain and modernize SOF worldwide. Assigned logisticians conduct integrated logistics support assessments to determine viability of program support necessary to meet operational capability and needs. J4-SA is responsible to review adequacy of program life cycle cost estimates and ensure all SOF-procured items are properly catalogued and inventoried in applicable information systems. In support of these acquisition, fielding and sustainment efforts, J4-SA assists in the prepara-tion and staffing of documents, including material fielding plans and fielding and deploy-ment releases. Lastly, J4-SA provides subject matter experts

in direct support of SOCOM’s flying hour program for Army Special Operations Command and Air Force Special Opera-tions Command aircraft.

oPerations, PLans, strategy and eqUiPment readiness division

The J4 Operations, Plans, Strategy and Equipment Readi-ness Division (J4-O) serves as the nexus for internal and exter-nal logistics planning, coordina-tion and execution of the J4/Directorate of Logistics’ logis-tics sustainment efforts. The primary focus is on operations planning, strategy, doctrine development and equipment readiness assessments by leveraging the capabilities of the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Staff, global combatant commands, services, components, TSOCs, SOCOM directorates and other govern-ment agencies.

The division’s mission is to synchronize and coordinate worldwide logistics support for approximately 66,000 SOF personnel executing world-wide contingency operations. J4-O assigns matrixed logistics officers to the J33 region-ally focused global support group within the SOCOM J3 Directorate of Operations; J5/Directorate of Strategy, Plans

and Policy; Global Mission Sup-port Center; and SOCOM OPTs, as required. These embedded logistics officers maintain situ-ational awareness of theater-specific requirements and, when required, deploy to assist TSOC missions. They actively coordinate logistical solution sets, including leveraging the Combat Mission Needs Statement, 1208 program and other similar processes.

When it comes to equip-ment readiness assessment of the components and TSOCs, the defense readiness report-ing system provides a key system of record inputs. To fulfill the mandate to monitor preparedness, logisticians must continually review and analyze equipment status information measured against the joint mission essential task list. The process, as expected, involves the application of both art and science to paint an accurate pic-ture of SOF readiness postures and to identify courses of action that maximize equipment readi-ness.

Beyond addressing the needs of today, J4-O works to shape the logistics support structures of tomorrow. These efforts lead to the development of effective policies and proce-dures and feed input to the joint strategic planning system and the joint capabilities integration and development system.

direCtorate of ProCUrement

Air Force Colonel Kurt A. Bergo leads the SORDAC Directorate of Procurement (SORDAC-K). Its mission is to rapidly transform acquisi-tion strategies into superior technologies, equipment, and services for special operations forces worldwide. To meet this challenging mission, SORDAC-K’s vision is to be the

Department of Defense’s finest contracting team and provide rapid, focused and innovative support to SOF.

SORDAC-K directly sup-ports SOCOM, its components, and the theater special opera-tions commands. SORDAC-K awards commandwide, large-dollar special operations equip-ment and performance-based

service contracts. It fulfills its mission through 21 contracting offices located throughout the continental United States; each office is geographically situated to provide support to a particu-lar SOCOM program executive office, directorate, or service SOF component or unit. Addi-tionally, SORDAC-K manages contingency contracting

operations in support of over-seas contingency operations.

In 2012, SORDAC-K awarded a number of key con-tracts, including environmen-tal preparation sets and joint operational stocks, as well as several rapid reaction require-ments for AC-130J aircraft, under the SOFSA indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity


(IDIQ) contract, depot support for MH-60M engines contract, and commercial vertical wind tunnel use contract. The directorate also awarded four language, regional expertise, and cultural training contracts and an expedition-ary unmanned aircraft system, maritime three-year IDIQ contract. SOCOM consis-tently exceeds its competition goals—in FY12, the command exceeded the 67 percent goal by competing 73.1 percent of total dollars obligated.

SORDAC-K strives to apply innovative and stream-lined contracting practices in every acquisition process. Within DoD and through the military departments, it may take several weeks for a proposed contract award to be approved. In contrast, SOCOM can approve contract awards in just a few days, or less, if needed. This stream-lined process can be attributed to several factors. First, SOCOM has been del-egated its own procurement authority. Second, SOCOM’s acquisition approval authori-ties are resident at the same location as the program and contracting teams at the head-quarters. Third, contract qual-ity reviewers participate in

integrated product team meet-ings and other early planning meetings to help expedite the approval process and to minimize misunderstandings rather than “inspect quality into the product” in the final phase of the process before contract award.

Collectively, these factors effectively minimize the orga-nizational distance between the contracting officer and the approving official, which results in expedited approvals.

By using innovative tech-niques, sustaining an inten-tionally flat organizational

structure, and streamlining procurement processes, SOR-DAC-K is able to execute rapid acquisitions crucial to the success of our SOF warriors participating in OCOs. Each day, on average, SORDAC-K awards 60 contracting actions worth more than $13 million.

teChnoLogy and indUstry Liaison offiCe/ offiCe of smaLL BUsiness Programs

SOCOM established the Technology and Industry Liaison Office (TILO) to assist industry representatives and the command with commu-nications, collaboration and connections that facilitate business opportunities and a better understanding of the command’s acquisition inter-ests. Specifically, the TILO is the primary point of contact for the submission of

white papers on areas of interest that are relevant to SOCOM, and the TILO then connects industry’s best ideas and capabilities to the right organizations within the command. Because partner-ships with industry have a direct impact on the success of the SOF operator, SOCOM is committed to ensuring industry has the information necessary to determine which

opportunities best suit their business and where to find more information.

The TILO publishes SOCOM’s capability areas of interest on its website; industry’s large and small businesses, entrepreneurs, research companies, labs and academia can access the infor-mation and submit their ideas directly to the command. The TILO team provides direct

communication with submit-ters regarding subject matter expert interest in the capabili-ties submitted, and they assist with the possible application of those ideas and capabilities to solutions for SOF operators.

On the SORDAC website (www.socom.mil/sordac), the TILO also receives and coor-dinates unsolicited proposals (in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation 15.6)

SEALs and divers from SEAL delivery vehicle team [SDVT] 1 swim back to the guided-missile submarine USS Michigan during an exercise for certification on SEAL delivery vehicle operations. The exercises educate operators and divers on the techniques and procedures related to the delivery vehicle and its operations. [Photo courtesy U.S. Navy]


and cooperative research and development agreements (CRADAs) for SOCOM. CRA-DAs provide a collaborative mechanism for SOCOM to partner with industry on research and development initiatives with mutually desir-able results. Through CRADAs, SOCOM is able to provide direct feedback to industry as they commit funding to develop or mature new tech-nology and demonstrate or provide it to the command for testing. This feedback serves as intellectual capital that com-panies and researchers can

use to guide their future work and to further develop solu-tions for SOF operator needs. In addition, these agreements often serve as a springboard for companies to market their technologies to other services and government agencies and to commercialize their tech-nology in the private sector.

The TILO educates, trains, informs and assists the com-mand and industry with communications and events that strengthen government and industry ties. They work closely with the Directorate of Science and Technology,

program executive offices, and various SOCOM person-nel who provide the scientific, technical and engineering assistance to help assess all submitted information. The TILO also organizes, maintains and archives the capabilities information for collaboration within SOCOM.

The Office of Small Busi-ness Programs (OSBP) is des-ignated to advocate on behalf of small businesses; it strives to meet the goals mandated by Congress and the Office of the Secretary of Defense, ensuring equal opportunities

to conduct business with the command. The OSBP pro-vides information and guid-ance on defense procurement policies and procedures as well as methods for identify-ing prime contracting and subcontracting opportunities. SOCOM continually strives to increase the number of contract awards to small businesses, service-disabled veteran-owned small busi-nesses, woman-owned small businesses, small disadvan-taged businesses, histori-cally underutilized business zones, and historically black colleges, universities, and minority institutions.

SOCOM did well in sup-porting small businesses in FY12. The command awarded 23.3 percent of all prime dollars to small businesses, which represented over $587 million in prime award dol-lars. The command exceeded its small disadvantaged business goal along with its

woman-owned small business goal. Although the set service-disabled veteran-owned small business goal was narrowly missed this past year, it was the best performance, per-centage wise, in the com-mand’s history. Overall, 2012 was a successful year for the OSBP.

To contact the TILO or OSBP with questions, you may call Chris Harrington at 813-826-9475 or email the offices at [email protected] and christopher.harrington @socom.mil, respectively.

aCqUisition PoLiCy and anaLysis

The interface to the Department of Defense acquisition community, the Acquisition Policy and Analy-sis Division is responsible for ensuring DoD and SOCOM

acquisition guidance and direction are included in the center’s acquisition functions. This task is accomplished primarily by integrating DoDI 5000.02, Defense Acquisition

System, requirements into the SOCOM Directive 70-1, SOCOM Acquisition Manage-ment System Policy. The divi-sion then develops and implements policies,

processes and analysis prod-ucts designed to assist the center’s acquisition organiza-tions with DoDI 5000.02 and SOCOM Directive 70-1 compli-ance. O

Special Forces medical sergeant students participate in a field-training exercise focused on performing medical care in a combat zone. The exercise, run by the Special Warfare Medical Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, N.C., tests the medical students’ skills before they graduate the Special Forces Qualification Course and join operational detachment-alphas across the globe. [Photo courtesy of DoD]


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