The U.S. military’s latest push to integrate cutting-edge technology into its operational framework is unfolding in the arid landscapes of Southern Arizona, where Fort Huachuca recently hosted an exclusive event that could reshape the future of warfare. Dubbed “Experimentation: Transformation in Contact” (EXTIC), the event brought together defence vendors and military personnel to test innovations designed to enhance communication, situational awareness, and lethality on the battlefield.
Chris Shumac, a Department of Defense engagement manager, underscored the significance of the event, stating, “This makes every warfighter not only more lethal but safer. It’s helping them extend their capabilities, it’s helping them be aware of emerging technologies.” The focus was clear: to bridge the gap between decision-makers and troops in the field, ensuring faster, more informed responses to evolving threats.
Among the standout technologies showcased was the Apollo, a surveillance tool that combines camera and radar capabilities. Scott Fournier of Digital Force Technologies demonstrated how the Apollo could provide real-time intelligence, a critical advantage in modern combat scenarios. “This is the Apollo. It does a combination of camera and radar surveillance,” Fournier explained, highlighting its versatility in both day and night operations.
Another innovation that drew attention was a fully 3D-printed drone, introduced by Mike Hogges, president of Echomav. The drone’s modular design allows for in-field repairs, reducing long-term costs and keeping troops safer. “Tech like this drone cuts long-term costs and keeps boots on the ground safer,” Hogges said. “And they can fix this in the field,” he added, emphasising its practicality and adaptability.
Leonard Sklencar of KaizenLabs showcased a helmet equipped with drone detection capabilities, offering warfighters an additional layer of awareness. “For under a thousand dollars, the warfighter has access to additional seconds of awareness,” Sklencar noted, stressing the affordability and accessibility of the technology.
One of the most intriguing demonstrations was a seemingly simple box running a program called Archnet. This technology connected Fort Huachuca with the Playas Research and Training Center in New Mexico, approximately 170 miles away, enabling real-time data sharing across vast distances. Chad Bowie of MMB Solutions highlighted the global potential of the technology. “Options for deployment truly are global, you could take this to Alaska, Florida,” Bowie said, suggesting its adaptability to diverse operational environments.
Shumac outlined the broader vision for the technology, explaining that this event served as a proof of concept. “So this is our first proof of concept, where we’re connecting two ranges but we envision being able to connect additional military ranges on that common operating picture further down the road,” he said. The data collected during EXTIC is expected to play a pivotal role in preparing these technologies for real-world combat scenarios.
This event at Fort Huachuca is more than just a showcase of new tools—it’s a testament to the U.S. military’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging threats. As defence technologies continue to evolve, the integration of these innovations into operational frameworks will be crucial in maintaining a competitive edge. The lessons learned from EXTIC could very well define the next generation of military capabilities, ensuring that warfighters are not only more lethal but also safer in an increasingly complex battlefield.
