US special operators will start using wearable devices to monitor health and protect against chemical threats

The US Special Forces will soon receive new wearable gadgets that will help monitor the health of fighters right in the field. LifeLens Technologies develops devices that monitor vital signs, such as heart rate, stress levels, and more. 

But most importantly, these devices will be able to warn in advance if the operator is exposed to dangerous chemicals or toxic gases. A representative of the US Office of Special Operations (SOF), which is responsible for security in the face of chemical threats, said that by the end of this year, special forces units will begin to use these devices in practice.

How does it work? The device continuously collects data on the fighter's condition and transmits the information to the command post in real time. If the device "suspects" harmful effects, it will immediately send an alarm signal in order to react quickly and save the operator. This is a major step forward to improve the safety of soldiers, especially when working in the most difficult and dangerous conditions.

The French Defense Procurement Agency has installed the STRIKE firing system on NH-90 TTH "Caïman" helicopters to improve the accuracy of the French army

 The French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) has officially announced the installation of the STRIKE firing system on one of the most modern multipurpose helicopters of the French Army light aviation (ALAT) — NH-90 TTH "Caïman". This solution is aimed at improving the accuracy and stability of aerial fire in difficult flight conditions. STRIKE (Stabilisateur de Tir Réglable d'Intervention Kinésique et Équilibré) is a stabilizing mechanical system that reduces vibrations and reduces the weight of the weapon on the shooter, allowing accurate shooting from a moving platform.

The system has already been integrated on Gazelle, Cougar and Fennec helicopters and has passed a technical and operational assessment with the participation of armed units. Flight tests were conducted for the NH-90 with various weapons options, including a 12.7 mm M3M machine gun, an HK 417 assault rifle, a PGM Hecate II sniper rifle, and a long-range surveillance system. STRIKE can also be equipped with a telephoto camera to support aerial reconnaissance operations.

In addition, the NH-90 Cayman Standard 2, introduced in April 2025, has improved performance, including powerful engines, increased range and payload, as well as advanced combat control and surveillance equipment. 18 such helicopters are expected to be delivered between 2026 and 2029 to the 4th Separate Regiment of Special Operations Helicopters (4e RHFS) in Pau.

The integration of STRIKE significantly expands the capabilities of the French airmobile forces, allowing for more efficient high-precision fire support in dynamic and unstable conditions of action.

The C-130J will have "fins" — the US Air Force is testing a new product to save fuel

 

American C—130J Hercules transporters may have strange fins on their tails. The US Air Force, more specifically the Special Operations Command (AFSOC), has begun testing thin keel plates developed by Vortex Control Technologies. They look like small aerodynamic "ears" — but, according to the idea, they should seriously improve the characteristics of the aircraft.

What does this mean? The main goal is to reduce fuel consumption and increase flight range. The plates work according to the principle of controlling air vortices in the tail section of the aircraft — they "smooth out" the flow, reduce turbulence and, as a result, reduce aerodynamic drag.

For C-130J-type transporters, who often fly with heavy loads, at the limit of their capabilities and without fuel reserves, even a small gain in efficiency is already a victory. We may be talking about percentages, but on the scale of a fleet and long—term operation, this means millions of dollars in savings.

Plus, the increased range is especially important for special forces: they often need to fly far, quietly and without refueling. Any improvement is a direct bonus in survival and mission flexibility.

The best part is that the system is cheap and easy to install. No alterations to the engine or fuselage. They just screwed on the plates and flew on, spending less.

If the tests are successful, the entire C-130J fleet can be equipped with such "fins". And who would have thought — the future of fuel economy does not start with a new engine, but with small parts on the tail.

Quiet drones for special forces are now able to launch even smaller drones, which greatly changes the rules of the game

 

Imagine a drone that flies almost silently, can stay in the sky for a long time, and at the same time launches its "assistants" — small drones. Does it sound like fiction? But no, such technology is being actively implemented now.

Ultra-quiet drones, which were previously used by intelligence agencies for reconnaissance and covert operations, are getting a new feature: they can now drop or launch mini-drones in flight. It generally opens up a lot of new possibilities. That is, the big drone does not climb into the danger zone itself — it remains in the shadows, and sends its little brother into battle.

Can you imagine how convenient that is? For example, if you need to get into a city full of enemies, or get into a hard-to-reach place. A baby drone flies inside, inspects everything, maybe even throws or passes something, and then returns back. And all this is done without unnecessary noise and risk to the main device.

Experts say that this is not just a fashion feature, but a real breakthrough. Such drones can change the tactics of warfare, make special operations even more accurate and safer. And, by the way, not only the military will take advantage of this advantage — such technologies will be useful to rescuers, environmentalists, and even cameramen.

In general, the future is already on the way, and it flies almost silently.

The United States is investing more than $365 million in the modernization of MC-130J Commando II aircraft

MC-130J Commando II

The USAF budget for fiscal year 2026 provides for the allocation of 365.086 million dollars for the HC/MC-130 aircraft modernization program, with a special focus on further developing the capabilities of the MC-130J Commando II special transport aircraft. These investments are designed to ensure the maintenance and expansion of combat and operational capabilities of aircraft in a rapidly changing global threat environment.

The modernization program covers the post-production upgrade of on-board systems aimed at increasing the level of stealth, autonomy and combat effectiveness of aircraft. Special attention is being paid to the MC-130J's ability to perform covert infiltration, personnel evacuation, and special operations forces supply missions in hard-to-reach or controlled areas.

The funding will be directed to:

- modernization of electronic and navigation systems;

- updating of radio communications and communications with the rear;

- improvement of self-defense and counter-threat systems;

- modernization of the crew training system;

- Integration of new technologies to enhance survivability and interaction with other special operations forces.

The MC-130J Commando II has already established itself as a key platform for high-risk missions within the USSOCOM (Joint Special Operations Command). Its ability to operate in areas with high air defense density and minimal ground support makes it an indispensable element of the US special operations strategy.

The allocated funds underline the Pentagon's desire to maintain technological superiority and readiness to act in future conflicts, where inconspicuous and multifunctional aerial platforms will play an important role.

A Russian Mi-17 helicopter of the US special Operations Forces suddenly appeared in Arizona — why is it there?

 

Against the background of tense Russian-American relations and a complete embargo on the supply of military equipment from Russia, an unusual event was recorded in Arizona (USA) — the appearance of a Russian Mi-17 helicopter, painted in a discreet gray coloring and associated with the American Special Operations Forces (SOF).

The incident occurred during recent exercises in an urban environment conducted by the US military. The participation of helicopters of this type in them has aroused the interest of analysts and experts, as it indicates the continued use of Russian-made equipment in secret Pentagon programs even after the complete severance of military-technical cooperation with Moscow.

One of the participants in the exercises, namely the Mi—17, was spotted at the Tucson air base, where US Air Force units supporting special forces operations are based. This particular instance, according to open data, was previously listed as part of a limited number of helicopters acquired by the United States before the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine and modified for the needs of special operations.

Despite the fact that the United States is actively developing its own programs for the creation and modernization of helicopters for special forces (for example, the Sikorsky MH-60 or the new Boeing SB-1 Defiant), the Mi-17 remains in demand in certain scenarios.:

- High reliability and ease of maintenance, especially in remote theaters of military operations;

- Large carrying capacity, allowing to transport special forces groups or equipment in difficult conditions;

- A unique flight technical base that can be used to train counteraction to similar machines used by potential opponents.;

- Secrecy and non-obviousness: in some regions of the world, the use of a "Russian" helicopter can help in misinformation or conceal the true identity of the operation.

According to sources, some of these vehicles are on the balance sheet of the 6th Special Operations Detachment (6th SOS), which is traditionally associated with conducting secret missions that often overlap with the activities of the CIA and other intelligence agencies.

It is noted that this Mi-17 also participated in the preparation for operations in the Middle East, including work in mountainous and desert conditions, where high engine efficiency and maneuverability are important. Such vehicles can be used both for the delivery of special groups, as well as for the evacuation of citizens or the elimination of high-ranking targets.

Leadership change in the US Air Force Special Operations Command

General Anthony Greene

According to a statement released by AFSOC officials, the top commander of the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), General Anthony Greene, who has 20,000 personnel, has been relieved of his post due to a "loss of confidence in his ability to carry out his duties."

Details of the leadership change

- Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC): This is a unit of the United States Air Force responsible for conducting special operations, including sabotage, reconnaissance, and other special-purpose missions.

-General Anthony Greene: He was the head of AFSOC and was relieved of his post due to "loss of confidence in his ability to perform his duties."

- Strength: The Air Force Special Operations Command has about 20,000 personnel, including pilots, paratroopers, and intelligence specialists.

The reasons for the management change were not disclosed in the official statement, but such decisions are usually made due to unsatisfactory results or management problems. This may be due to errors in the planning of operations, incorrect decisions, or other factors that may affect the effectiveness of the command.

A change of leadership at AFSOC may affect current and future operations. The new commander will be required to assess the current state and identify areas for improvement. This may include reviewing the strategy, improving staff training, and strengthening management.

Airbus unveils prototype NH90 Caïman Standard 2 multipurpose helicopter for the French Army

NH90 Caïman Standard 2

Airbus has unveiled a prototype of the NH90 Caïman Standard 2 multirole helicopter at the SOFINS 2025 International Special Operations Exhibition in Martigny-sur-Mer. The helicopter is designed for the French army and is part of Paris' efforts to integrate next-generation capabilities into units designed for evacuation, fire support and other rapid deployment tasks requiring low visibility.

Key Features of NH90 Caïman Standard 2

The NH90 Caïman Standard 2 is an improved version of the previous generation of Caïman Standard 1 helicopters. The new model includes components specifically designed for covert operations. Among them:

- Infrared camera with laser pointer and target designator (EOS410 from Safran);

- Improved radio communications for joint and coalition operations;

- New types of weapons.

The NH90 Caïman Standard 2 helicopter can be equipped with door-mounted machine guns, multi-functional rockets, rocket blocks and auxiliary cannons. It has a length of 20 meters, a rotor diameter of 16 meters and an external load capacity of 4,200 kilograms. The cabin can accommodate up to 20 soldiers or 10 stretchers for medical evacuation.

The NH90 Cayman Standard 2 is equipped with two turboshaft engines with up to 2,400 horsepower each. The helicopter has a maximum speed of 300 kilometers per hour, a flight range of 1,600 kilometers, and an operating altitude of 3,500 meters.

Airbus has signed a contract for the production of 18 NH90 Caïman Standard 2 helicopters for the 4th Special Forces Regiment of the French Army in Pai. Helicopter assembly has already begun at the Marignan facility, and deliveries are scheduled for the period from 2026 to 2029. After delivery, the new helicopters will replace the aging H215M Cougar and H225M Caracal models, also manufactured by Airbus.

The NH90 Cayman Standard 2 will play an important role in the operational capabilities of the French special forces, providing them with greater flexibility and effectiveness in difficult combat conditions.

Benelli introduces the M4 AI Drone Guardian to Combat Drones

 Benelli Armi SpA, a subsidiary of Beretta and the world's largest gun manufacturer, has unveiled its latest innovation in anti—drone technology, the M4 AI Drone Guardian. — during a demonstration at the ISOF proving ground in Nevada.

The weapons are designed to provide advanced units with a reliable last-chance weapon against small unmanned aerial vehicles, including quadcopter-style first-person view (FPV) drones.

According to Beretta's press release, "along with Beretta, the company was invited to the ISOF range in Nevada this week to present its M4 AI Drone Guardian Counter-UAS shotgun to an exclusive group of representatives from the international special operations forces community." The company describes the new system as "proven in combat conditions" and "providing unsurpassed reliability in all operational conditions."

The first OA-1K Skyraider II has been transferred to the US Air Force Special Operations Command

 

OA-1K Skyraider II

In early April 2025, the US Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) received the first copy of the OA-1K Skyraider II light attack aircraft.This aircraft, developed on the basis of the Air Tractor AT-802 agrotechnical aircraft and modified by L3Harris, is designed to perform special missions, including ground operations support, reconnaissance and armed surveillance.

The OA-1K Skyraider II is a modular platform that can quickly adapt to various tasks. It can carry Hellfire missiles, GBU-12 laser bombs and other types of precision weapons.The aircraft is also equipped with modern electronic optics and radio communication systems, which allows it to perform tasks in difficult conditions.

The choice of a light attack aircraft has raised some doubts about its relevance in the modern era, when the main focus is on high-tech systems and opposition to major powers.However, representatives of the US Air Force emphasize that Skyraider II is designed for operations in low-threat environments and will be effective in combating asymmetric threats such as terrorism and illegal armed groups.In addition, its low cost of operation and its ability to deploy quickly make it attractive for special operations.

The first OA-1K Skyraider II was delivered at Hurlburt Air Force Base, Florida, and real-world testing will begin soon.It is planned that in the coming years, several dozen more such aircraft will be produced for the needs of special operations.

The United States is developing drones for operations in caves and tunnels: a new approach to special operations

 

The US Special Forces (USSOCOM) are looking for new unmanned systems for operations in caves and tunnels. These technologies are designed to provide advantages in the field of communication and situational awareness, which is especially important in the context of complex and dangerous tasks faced by elite units.

 Why drones?

1. Advantages over service dogs:

   - Drones can provide a higher level of situational awareness and communication compared to military service dogs. They are capable of transmitting video and data in real time, allowing operators to make more informed decisions.

2. The complexity of operations in caves and tunnels:

   - Fighting in caves and tunnels is one of the most difficult tasks for special forces. Limited space, poor visibility, and the risk of ambushes make such operations extremely dangerous. Drones can help reduce risks by providing intelligence and communications in environments where traditional methods are ineffective.

American special forces are often at the forefront of introducing new technologies. Collaboration with industry allows them to develop solutions that meet the specific requirements of their missions. In the case of drones for operations in caves and tunnels, USSOCOM is working on creating systems that will:

1. Compact and maneuverable:

- Drones must be small enough to penetrate narrow passages and tunnels, but at the same time have high maneuverability to perform tasks effectively.

2. Provide communication and data transmission:

   - An important task is to ensure reliable communication and data transmission in conditions where radio signals may be weakened or blocked.

3. Provide autonomy:

   - Drones should be able to operate autonomously, performing tasks without direct operator involvement, which is especially important in conditions of limited visibility and communication.

Developing drones for operations in caves and tunnels is a difficult technical task, but USSOCOM is already showing progress in this direction. Collaboration with industry and the use of advanced technologies make it possible to create systems that can significantly improve the efficiency and safety of special operations.

1. Technical challenges:

   - One of the main challenges is to ensure reliable communication and data transmission in caves and tunnels, where signals can be severely weakened.

2. Integration with existing systems:

   - New drones must be integrated with existing communication and control systems, which requires careful coordination and testing.

The development of drones for operations in caves and tunnels is an important step in the modernization of the US special forces. These technologies can significantly improve the efficiency and security of special operations, providing advantages in the field of communication and situational awareness. Collaboration with industry and the use of advanced technologies allow USSOCOM to remain at the forefront of innovation and prepare for the challenges of the future.