Joint interagency Task Force Spearheads Contract, Unifies Drone Defenses

To counter the rapidly evolving threat from hostile unmanned aircraft systems, Joint Interagency Task Force 401 has championed a groundbreaking enterprise-level agreement to provide a cutting-edge command-and-control solution through a strategic action.

Awarded by Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, the initiative directly addresses the critical interoperability challenge that has hampered joint and interagency counter-unmanned aircraft system operations.

By establishing a common technological backbone, this agreement paves the way for an integrated, multilayered defense network that will allow warfighters and federal agents to seamlessly share data, coordinate responses and neutralize threats faster and more effectively.

"This is a decisive move against a pervasive and growing threat; we are breaking down the hurdles that have limited our effectiveness in the [counter]-UAS fight," said Army Col. Tony Lindh, task force deputy director of acquisitions. "This agreement provides common air domain awareness through a proven [command and control] platform - Lattice - allowing us to build a cohesive, agile and formidable defensive ecosystem. For the first time, we have a clear path to true interoperability across the [War] Department and our interagency partners."

The agreement signals a fundamental shift in the government's approach to acquiring critical software-defined capabilities. Rather than managing dozens of disparate contracts, this single enterprise vehicle allows for rapid procurement and deployment of counter-UAS technology where it is needed most, ensuring the U.S. maintains a decisive advantage.

By centralizing procurement under one $20 billion vehicle, the government will gain a unified tracking point for all related acquisitions, reduce duplicative purchases, minimize dormant procurements and achieve greater pricing transparency and cost savings.

"Based on our testing and evaluation, it became clear that a common command and control system is needed to effectively counter adversary drones. These results were confirmed during my visit to Ukraine, when I saw firsthand how drones have changed the modern battlefield," said Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, task force director. "It ensures that our operators, agents and allies have immediate access to the best-in-class tools needed to defeat the UAS threat. We are cutting through red tape and delivering top-tier technology to our warfighters at the speed of relevance."