The Asymmetric Strategic Option for a Volatile World
Tampa, Florida, once again transformed into the epicenter of global special operations from May 5–8, 2025, as SOF Week returned with its signature blend of grit, innovation, and unfiltered collaboration. This year’s theme, “The Asymmetric Strategic Option for a Volatile World,” was more just a catchy slogan—it served as a call to arms for the world’s most elite warriors and the tech titans who arm them.
Despite some turbulence from U.S. government travel restrictions, the event maintained its momentum, drawing thousands of attendees from over 60 countries. The Tampa Convention Center buzzed with activity as operators, defense contractors, and international delegations converged to forge the future of warfare.
Anduril Industries: The Vanguard of Modern Warfare
Among the myriad exhibitors, Anduril Industries stood out, not just for its sleek booth but for the groundbreaking tech it unveiled. Their new Pulsar-L EW system, no larger than a 3kW portable generator, promises to revolutionize counter-drone operations. This software-defined electromagnetic warfare system can detect, identify, track, and neutralize threats in a single, deployable package. Available in both airborne and expeditionary configurations, Pulsar-L integrates seamlessly with Anduril’s Lattice AI platform, ensuring operators have real-time situational awareness.
But Anduril didn’t stop there. Their Seabed Sentry system, a rapidly deployable undersea surveillance network, leverages modular sensor nodes to monitor maritime domains. This system, developed in partnership with Ultra Maritime, offers a new layer of security beneath the waves.
Adding to their arsenal, Anduril introduced the Copperhead, an unmanned undersea vehicle designed for launch from larger drones. This torpedo-launching drone expands the reach and lethality of underwater operations.
And let’s not forget the YFQ-44 “Fury,” Anduril’s entry into the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft program. This unmanned combat aerial vehicle is designed to operate alongside manned fighters, bringing AI-driven capabilities to the aerial battlefield.
Synergy in Action: The Power of Collaboration
SOF Week 2025 wasn’t just about showcasing new toys; it highlighted the power of collaboration. The event’s theme underscored the importance of joint efforts in addressing modern threats. From panel discussions to impromptu hallway meetings, the emphasis was on breaking down silos and fostering partnerships across disciplines. This was evident this year in a way it was not in years past. Gone are the days when each megacorporation is “keeping it all in-house”. Today it is all about working together to achieve the greater good.
As Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth highlighted in his keynote, the strength of special operations lies in its adaptability and the seamless integration of diverse capabilities.
Bravo to that, Pete.
SOFREP: Proud Media Sponsor
SOFREP was honored to serve as a media sponsor for SOF Week 2025, and through our various social media feeds, we were able to bring our readers firsthand accounts of the innovations and collaborations shaping the future of special operations. Our team was on the ground (and out on the Bay), capturing the pulse of the event and providing in-depth coverage of the technologies and strategies unveiled.
Final Thoughts
SOF Week 2025 reaffirmed to this old soldier that in the ever-evolving landscape of global threats, synergy is essential. As technology continues to advance at a breakneck pace, the integration of diverse capabilities and the fostering of partnerships will remain the cornerstone of effective special operations.
In the words of a grizzled operator we met on the convention floor, “It’s not about having the biggest gun; it’s about knowing when and how to use it—and having the right team beside you.”
Amen to that.