Combat Capabilities Development Command
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| Combat Capabilities Development Command | |
|---|---|
| Unit name | Combat Capabilities Development Command |
| Dates | 2018–present |
| Country | United States |
| Branch | United States Army |
| Type | Research and development command |
| Role | Technology and capability development |
| Command structure | United States Army Futures Command |
| Garrison | Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland |
| Garrison label | Headquarters |
| Nickname | DEVCOM |
Combat Capabilities Development Command. It is a major subordinate command of the United States Army Futures Command, established in 2018 as part of a sweeping modernization reform. Headquartered at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, the command consolidates the Army's premier research, development, and engineering centers into a single organization. Its primary focus is to deliver disruptive technologies and integrated capabilities to ensure U.S. Army overmatch against near-peer adversaries in future conflicts.
History
The command was formed through the consolidation of several legacy organizations, most notably the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command (RDECOM), which was officially disestablished. This reorganization was a direct outcome of the Army's shift under Army Futures Command to accelerate the modernization of its six priority areas. The creation of the command aimed to streamline the science and technology enterprise, fostering closer collaboration between scientists, engineers, and Program Executive Offices. Its establishment marked a significant departure from previous acquisition structures, intended to more rapidly transition technologies from laboratories to the hands of soldiers in units like the 82nd Airborne Division.
Organization
The command is organized under a headquarters element at Aberdeen Proving Ground that provides overarching direction and integration. It directly oversees eight specialized development centers and research laboratories, each with distinct technological portfolios and geographic locations across the United States. This structure is designed to leverage deep technical expertise in fields ranging from chemical defense to aviation and missile systems. The command works in close partnership with other Department of Defense entities, including the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and various Department of the Army staff elements, to align its efforts with broader national defense strategies.
Mission and Functions
Its core mission is to develop and deliver technology-based capabilities that provide the U.S. Army with decisive advantages. This involves conducting foundational and applied research, advanced technology development, and engineering support for major acquisition programs. Key functions include prototyping next-generation systems, conducting rigorous testing and evaluation at facilities like Yuma Proving Ground, and supporting soldier-centered design initiatives. The command plays a critical role in the Army Modernization Strategy, focusing on priority areas such as Long-Range Precision Fires, Next Generation Combat Vehicle, and Network capabilities to counter threats from nations like China and Russia.
Major Projects and Systems
The command's centers are integral to nearly every major Army modernization effort. This includes development work on the M1 Abrams tank upgrades, the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle (formerly the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle), and advanced munitions like the Precision Strike Missile. Its scientists contribute to cutting-edge programs in artificial intelligence, robotics, directed-energy weapons such as high-energy lasers, and hypersonic technology. Other significant projects involve the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS), next-generation body armor and soldier lethality systems, and counter-UAV capabilities to protect forces from asymmetric threats.
Leadership
The command is led by a Major General who also serves as the Army's Chief Scientist, a dual-hatted role emphasizing the integration of research and development. This general officer reports directly to the commanding general of Army Futures Command. Previous leaders have often had extensive backgrounds in armor, field artillery, or engineer branches, coupled with advanced academic credentials in scientific fields. The command's senior civilian is the Deputy to the Commander, a Senior Executive Service official who provides continuity and deep technical expertise across the enterprise.
Component Centers and Laboratories
The command comprises eight primary component organizations, each a center of excellence. These include the Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center at Picatinny Arsenal, the Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation & Missile Center at Redstone Arsenal, and the Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center at Natick Soldier Systems Center. Other key components are the Combat Capabilities Development Command Ground Vehicle Systems Center at Detroit Arsenal, the Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground, and the Combat Capabilities Development Command Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground. The Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory and the Combat Capabilities Development Command Data & Analysis Center round out the team, providing foundational science and analytical support.