We live in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape where unmanned and autonomous systems, with their diverse functionalities across land, air, sea, and space, are both a boon and a challenge. These advanced technologies have accelerated progress, provided strategic and tactical advantages, minimized risks, and maximized operational efficiency. However, they have also introduced new challenges and complexities, including exploitation by adversarial powers and constraints arising from ethical, legal, regulatory, and safety frameworks. These factors are reshaping global security dynamics and presenting new realities in defense. This special issue of CTX explores the critical issues surrounding unmanned systems in hybrid and gray-zone operations. The aim is to rejuvenate dialogue on the multifaceted challenges posed by these systems and to propose strategies for the United States, its allies, and partner nations to jointly address them.

The issue begins with an essay by Ian McAlpine, who analyze the evolving role of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) through the lens of doctrine, ethics, regulations, and defense. The authors discuss the limitations of current counter-drone measures and propose innovative solutions to address UAS threats effectively in collaboration with allies and partners.

The next article examines how emergent technologies have democratized warfare and the implications for the U.S. Navy's ability to project power globally. Cecilia Panella and
Christopher Mears draw lessons from the Russo-Ukrainian war and the activities of Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, providing key recommendations for the Navy’s adaptation to autonomous systems. Kristin Fletcher and Marina Lesse follow with a discussion of the legal and policy challenges surrounding the design, development, and deployment of uncrewed maritime systems. They delve into specific legal considerations, including definitions, governance, and operational use, that shape the Navy’s approach to these technologies. Scott Moreland's article highlights the emerging threat of drones used by non-state actors in hybrid conflicts. By examining how these actors deploy drones against better-equipped state forces, the author underscores the evolving nature of conflict and the need for decisive countermeasures to mitigate the risks posed by autonomous systems.

Arian Sopiqoti and Zachary Klein then emphasize the critical role of ally and partner collaboration in the realm of unmanned systems. They explore how new technologies empower smaller nations to enhance their defense capabilities and stress the importance of strengthening alliances to maintain international order amid disruptive advancements.

Finally, the issue concludes with a featured interview with Colonel Omar Rambling Valdez. This insightful discussion explores the strategic importance of unmanned systems in
today’s geopolitical context. Drawing on his extensive special forces experience, Col. Valdez addresses the challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations using UAS for surveillance, smuggling, and attacks. He proposes comprehensive solutions, including bilateral legal frameworks, advanced technological countermeasures, and joint U.S.-Mexico collaboration to bolster cross-border security.

As always, CTX welcomes quality contributions from professionals and researchers in irregular warfare and special operations. If you have valuable insights to share, we encourage you to submit your work to CTXeditor@GlobalECCO.org. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis and will be published online upon acceptance. For more information about CTX and the Global ECCO project, visit https://nps.edu/web/ecco. If you have questions, please contact the Executive Editor, Amina Kator-Mubarez, at CTXeditor@GlobalECCO.org.