Collins Aerospace Wins $174M Contract to Modernize Army Special Operations Aviation Software

Collins Aerospace has been awarded a $174.1 million contract by the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) to modernize and sustain software systems for Army Special Operations Aviation aircraft. The indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract, announced on March 9, 2026, encompasses cost-plus-fixed-fee, cost-reimbursement, and firm-fixed-price contract line items for the Post Deployment Software Support VI (PDSS VI) program .

PDSS VI: Ensuring Aviation System Readiness

The PDSS VI effort is focused on maintaining the operational effectiveness of aviation systems – specifically flight and navigation sensors and transmitters – used by Army Special Operations Aviation units. These units conduct sensitive missions for USSOCOM . Under the terms of the award, issued on Thursday, March 7, 2026, Collins Aerospace will provide both production and contractor logistics support for the PDSS VI systems .

Contract Details and Timeline

The majority of the work will be performed in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The contract is expected to run through March 2031, with an optional six-month extension potentially extending the performance period to September 2031 . This IDIQ contract allows USSOCOM to procure services and support as needed over the contract’s lifespan.

Collins Aerospace’s Continued Support for SOCOM

Collins Aerospace has a long-standing relationship with USSOCOM, providing avionics development, integration, and sustainment services for several years. In 2020, the company received a $126 million IDIQ contract to research, develop, produce, and sustain the Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS) for Army special operations aircraft . The CAAS platform utilizes Collins Aerospace’s Flight2 open architecture, designed to integrate mission, navigation, and communications subsystems.

Further demonstrating its commitment to SOCOM, Collins Aerospace was as well awarded a $62 million contract in 2023 to deliver tactical mission network services, including logistics assistance and lifecycle support for avionics and cockpit systems, through the command’s Technology Applications Program Office .

Scope of Work

The PDSS VI contract encompasses a comprehensive range of responsibilities, including:

• Modernization of existing PDSS VI systems
• Production of modern system components
• Sustainment activities to ensure reliability
• Contractor logistics support, including maintenance and supply chain management

While specific technical details about the PDSS VI systems remain confidential due to operational security concerns , this contract underscores USSOCOM’s continued investment in advanced aviation software and hardware solutions for Army Special Operations Forces.