USCENTCOM Hosts Weeklong Hackathon to Strengthen Counter-UAS Capabilities

The U.S. Central Command has concluded Desert Architect, a weeklong hackathon designed to tackle critical challenges in countering unmanned aerial systems threats.

Held at USCENTCOM’s headquarters, the event brought together 20 expert hackers and subject matter experts to collaboratively develop innovative solutions for more efficient and precise UAS processes.

Throughout the week, the participants developed prototypes to enhance UAS countermeasures’ speed and accuracy. Additionally, they worked to ensure smooth integration and facilitate rapid capability transitions post-hackathon, USCENTCOM said.

Schuyler Moore, USCENTCOM’s chief technology officer, emphasized the importance of leveraging diverse expertise and innovative processes in creating cutting-edge solutions to improve operations.

Moore, a past Potomac Officers Club event speaker and a 2024 Wash100 awardee, said the initiative aims to expand the command’s network of technical experts and enhance counter-UAS capabilities.

Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, USCENTCOM commander, echoed Moore’s sentiment, underscoring the command’s strategic focus on “people, partners and innovation.” He asserted that future events will continue to advance data-centric warfighting capabilities for the command.

The hackathon was held in collaboration with the Defense Digital Service, 513th Military Intelligence Brigade, 18th Airborne Corps and the Defense Information Systems Agency.