The US Central Command has unveiled a new initiative designed to expedite the delivery of advanced technology and combat systems to military forces in the field. Titled the Rapid Employment Joint Task Force (REJTF), this initiative aims to significantly reduce the time required to deploy combat-ready technology to 60 days or less. The task force will be led by CENTCOM Chief Technology Officer Joy Shanaberger.
Focusing on three key areas—capability, software, and tech diplomacy—the REJTF will coordinate efforts across various branches of the military to ensure a more streamlined approach. Shanaberger emphasized that “equipping skilled warfighters faster with cutting-edge capabilities will deter bad actors,” signaling the critical nature of this initiative in enhancing national security.
CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper also highlighted the importance of the task force, noting that it aligns with broader government objectives to “rapidly equip our warriors.” He added, “This is about getting new warfighting capabilities into the hands of our skilled warfighters faster,” reflecting a concerted effort to modernize and enhance operational efficiency.
The creation of the REJTF is part of a wider Pentagon initiative aimed at speeding up the acquisition and deployment of emerging technologies, including drones. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has previously issued directives to boost production within the country’s drone manufacturing sector and integrate low-cost, combat-ready unmanned systems into military units more swiftly.
To achieve its objectives, the task force will enlist experts from diverse fields such as logistics, acquisitions, data integration, and warfighter training. By merging these disciplines, CENTCOM aims to identify more effective ways to equip troops in conjunction with regional partners. Admiral Cooper noted the critical nature of collaboration, stating, “Working shoulder-to-shoulder with regional partners to innovate and adapt is more critical than ever.”
The REJTF’s announcement follows the recent Red Sands exercise in Saudi Arabia, which marked the largest live-fire counter-drone drill in the Middle East to date. During this event, over 300 personnel evaluated 20 counter-unmanned aerial systems, integrating US, Saudi, and industry expertise to explore technologies for detecting, tracking, and neutralizing drone threats.
Earlier in May, key stakeholders from the Department of Defense and the defense industry convened for a summit focused on addressing the pressing challenge of hastening the transition of technology to the warfighter. This ongoing dialogue underscores a commitment to ensuring that military personnel have access to the latest technological advancements in a rapidly evolving battlefield landscape.
