Tactical Edge Overview

UDS Tactical Edge brings our proven secure software delivery platform, UDS, to the most challenging operational environments. Deploy Kubernetes directly to any weapon or platform from small remote devices with resource constraints to the DoD’s next-generation weapon systems and platforms.

• Limited resources needed (2GB RAM, such as a Raspberry Pi 5)
• Applications can run with or without connectivity - a fully airgapped solution
• Control deployments using a mobile app (tablets/smartphones) or CLI tools (laptops/desktops).

UDS Tactical Edge ensures your critical operations have the same secure and efficient software delivery capabilities in the field that you expect in enterprise environments.

To learn more watch this product explainer video.

One-to-Many Fleet Management

Warfighters risk their safety and efficiency when operating outdated systems—reduce exposure and streamline updates with bundled packages that deliver seamless, all-in-one application and platform upgrades, eliminating the need for fragile, patchwork scripts. Certified system administrators aren’t always available to perform software updates, which delays critical operations. UDS enables warfighters to deploy updates themselves, decentralizing software management and keeping assets in the fight.

Integrate Once, Deploy Anywhere

Fragmented environments create delays and inconsistencies—seamlessly integrate once and deploy across cloud, on-prem, and tactical edge environments without rework. UDS dynamically configures applications to fit their environment without extra effort. UDS will automatically configure your application via the UDS Operator.

Built for Combat Operations

Mission-critical apps shouldn’t require IT expertise—UDS eliminates complexity with a declarative approach for fast, effortless deployments. Operations leave no time for complex software—UDS delivers an intuitive interface pilots can use in-flight and commanders can operate while leading a convoy.

Airgapped, Mission Applications

Whether in a cockpit, fighting hole, submarine or data center, UDS can deliver software applications. Continued operations in contested, degraded and denied environments gives our forces the advantage in maneuver warfare.

Real-World Applications

To get a better idea of UDS Tactical Edge watch this real-world demonstration.

Domain	Problem	Solution
Joint Command & Control (JADC2 & Multi-Domain Ops)	The DoD wants to create a unified data mesh across domains, but platforms are incompatible, software updates are inconsistent, and portability is lacking between cloud, on-prem, and edge.	UDS enables interoperability between legacy and modern systems through hardware-agnostic software portability, ensuring seamless and secure updates across diverse environments. For joint C2 to become a reality, portability and air-gapped operations at the edge must be foundational.
Air	Aircraft suffer from costly sustainment cycles due to software complexity and update delays.	UDS enables seamless, automated software updates for containerized mission applications, reducing downtime and sustainment costs. Our product is built to modernize legacy platforms and keep next-gen platforms updated and secure.
Sea	Naval systems require costly, manual software updates that degrade readiness and increase cyber vulnerabilities. Additionally, airgapped vessels like submarines have avoided adopting modern technology due to non-connectivity environments.	Secure, airgapped, containerized applications that enable zero-downtime updates, improving fleet availability. Our airgapped processes can bring modern enterprise applications to our submarine force, increasing productivity and quality of life while underway.
Land	Aging ground combat systems require frequent, complex software updates, increasing sustainment costs and limiting adaptability.	UDS enables rapid, low-Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) software deployment that keeps platforms like tanks and armored vehicles mission-ready with minimal logistics burden.
Cyber & Electronic Warfare (EW)	Mission-critical cyber and EW tools require frequent updates to counter evolving threats, but legacy software delivery models are slow and ineffective.	Cyber and EW is the tip of the spear for DoD software capabilities. UDS supports airgapped, rapid deployment, enabling warfighters to update and deploy cyber tools and algorithms at the speed of relevance on the battlefield.
Special Operations Forces (SOF)	SOF teams operate in low-infrastructure, high-risk environments, making traditional sustainment and software updates impossible.	UDS minimizes Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP), allowing SOF operators to carry more AI-powered devices on the frontlines.
Unmanned Systems (Sea, Air, Land, Space)	Autonomous systems require frequent mission updates, but real-time connectivity is often disrupted in contested environments.	UDS enables secure, Kubernetes workloads, which can be preloaded and updated in the field to ensure mission adaptability.
Expeditionary & Tactical Operation Centers	Forward bases require self-sustaining software environments that can operate independently for extended periods.	UDS delivers hardened, containerized mission applications with automated sustainment capabilities, reducing dependency on external IT support. This approach enables supporting software factories at the enterprise level and applications at the edge level.
DevSecOps & CI/CD for Tactical Edge	Traditional software updates are slow, manual, and expensive, increasing lifecycle costs and limiting adaptability.	UDS provides a declarative deployment model, ensuring that what you develop and test will behave consistently in a production environment.

For a 1:1 consultation, contact:
hello@defenseunicorns.com