USSOCOM Open Call for Technical Experimentation 27-1: Special Operations Forces (SOF) Combat Diving (Diver Communications, Diver Propulsion, Underwater Interfaces) and Maritime Domain Situational Awareness Sensing Integration on USVs

US Special Operations Command issued a Request for Information and open call for technical experimentation nominations due October 22, 2026 at 12:00 Noon Eastern Time for Special Operations Forces combat diving technologies and maritime domain situational awareness sensing integration on unmanned surface vehicles.

The experimentation event runs December 7–11, 2026 at the Special Forces Underwater Operations School in Key West, Florida. USSOCOM seeks technology nominations from R&D organizations, private industry, academia, and government labs in two focus areas: (1) SOF combat diver communications, diver propulsion systems, and underwater interfaces, including C4/ISR systems, flat panel maritime antennas, threat awareness systems, underwater navigation and communication for GPS-denied environments, and diver communication devices meeting requirements for compact size, low-profile transmitters, operator interface compatibility with heavy gloves, operational temperature range, extended battery duration, and significant depth capability; and (2) integrated maritime domain battlespace awareness for autonomous surface vehicles, including multi-sensor reconnaissance, autonomous intelligence analysis, targeting and battle damage assessment, and integration to SOF Common Core Architecture–compatible systems using OMNI, PLI, FMV, and COT protocols. Proposed technologies must demonstrate Technology Readiness Levels 5–7.

Respondents submit nominations via the Vulcan system (vulcan-sof.com) with experiment plans, integration requirements, TRL validation documents, RF frequency authorization (FCC STA, experimental license, or NTIA document), safety instructions, photos with size references, and a signed photo release form. All submission, travel, and experimentation costs are borne by respondents; USSOCOM provides venue access, internet connectivity, and frequency coordination only. Successful participants may receive awards under 10 U.S.C. 4021, 4022, or 4023 (Other Transactions), CRADAs, Partnership Intermediary Agreements, or Collaborative Project Orders. Respondents must comply with all ITAR/EAR requirements and verify their technology's export status.