RESCHEDULED - USSOCOM RFI Rapid Experimentation of Prototyping in Learning Environments 26-1: Counter-Unmanned Systems (C-UxS)

The U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has issued a Special Notice announcing the rescheduling of the Rapid Experimentation of Prototyping in Learning Environments (REPTILE) 2026 event from June to September 2026. This is a Request for Information (RFI) soliciting technology nominations for Counter-Unmanned Systems (C-UxS) experimentation, not a contract solicitation or procurement opportunity. USSOCOM explicitly clarifies that participation in REPTILE does not obligate the government to purchase equipment or award contracts. The notice invites research and development organizations, private industry, academia, individuals, and government laboratories to nominate emerging technologies for demonstration and assessment. USSOCOM indicates that a follow-on RFI announcement with updated and additional information will be released in June or July 2026.

Nominations must be submitted by April 21, 2026, at 12:00 Noon Eastern Daylight Time through the Vulcan system at vulcan-sof.com using Scout Cards. Eligible participants include any organization or individual with technologies at Technology Readiness Level 6 or above that address counter-unmanned system capabilities, such as detection, engagement, modular systems, kinetic and non-kinetic defeat options, autonomous unmanned systems with swarming capabilities, and advanced human-machine interfaces with AI integration. All submission costs, travel expenses, and experimentation costs are the participant's responsibility, though USSOCOM will provide venue infrastructure in Gulfport, Mississippi, frequency coordination, and basic shore power at no cost. Participants must submit detailed safety documentation including Deliberate Risk Assessment worksheets, device specifications, photographs, radio frequencies with FCC or NTIA approval, and signed photography release forms. The experimentation will focus on technologies capable of defeating swarms of up to 100 autonomous Group 1-2 drones in denied areas during day and night conditions, with operational personnel evaluating the solutions during a one-week event.