Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA – The U.S. Army achieved a major modernization milestone with the Launched Effects-Short Range Special User Demonstration (LE-SR SUD). For the first time, operational units employed Launched Effects (LE) technology in a field environment. The demonstration occurred between August 4th and 22nd 2025.

“Launched Effects are a game changing capability and will revolutionize how we operate in contested environments. Employed at echelon, they allow us to maneuver against enemy forces while striking decisively at key targets and safeguarding our formations,” stated Brig. Gen. David Phillips, Program Executive Officer, Aviation.

Launched Effects offer a new approach to challenges on the battlefield. They allow forces to act decisively, adapt to complex situations and maintain a war-winning advantage in future large-scale combat operations.

“Soldiers involved in the demonstration are not just operators; they are active contributors to shaping the future of Launched Effects,” said Lt. Col. C Hunter Gray, LE Product Manager. “We, with our Army and industry partners, will use their feedback to assess LE’s impact across all areas, including materiel, doctrine, training, and personnel. This input will help refine fielding requirements, improve training programs, and ensure the technology meets the needs of our Soldiers.”

The LE-SR SUD employed a progressive “crawl, walk, run” training methodology. Soldiers began with classroom instruction on system operation, maintenance, and then transitioned to field exercises culminating in immersive scenarios based on specific use-cases. This phased approach built Soldiers proficiency and confidence with the new technology.

Several Soldiers described the training as comprehensive and easy to understand.

“I will definitely be able to tactically employ the equipment and take it back to my unit to teach my Soldiers,” stated Sgt. Devin Heaton, a cavalry scout assigned to the 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment.

The primary goals of the LE-SR SUD include gathering Soldier feedback, validating initial requirements, and successfully deploying LE technology with an array of formations. Ultimately, the event aimed to mitigate risks and accelerate the fielding of initial Launched Effects capabilities to all active-duty divisions by the end of 2026.

“This demonstration is critical to ensuring Launched Effects meet the needs of the warfighter and integrate seamlessly into Army operations,” said COL Danielle Medaglia, Project Manager, Unmanned Aircraft Systems, while observing the demonstration. “Modernization is not just about technology; it’s about empowering our Soldiers with the tools they need to succeed in the battles of tomorrow.”

Now that the LE-SR SUD concluded, the Army will analyze and incorporate Soldier feedback to refine LE requirements and inform future modernization efforts. Additional demonstrations and exercises will further develop and validate this war-winning capability.

By: Anthony Buchanan, Launched Effects Operations Analyst