Innovation Takes Flight: Air Commandos Showcase Creative Solutions at Thunder Dome 2025
By Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs
Earlier this year, Air Commandos across Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) participated in the Thunder Dome innovation competition at Hurlburt Field, FL.
As part of the January 2025 competition, Air Commandos presented their projects and ideas to AFSOC senior leaders. Many participants sought to replace or enhance existing systems within their work centers to extend the longevity of their operations. For example, a senior Airman from the 352nd Special Operations Wing at Royal Air Force Mildenhall, England, presented a solution that uses more durable materials to protect equipment used for airdrops. By mitigating wear and tear during standard operations, her concept would extend the service life of the unit’s airdrop platforms. She added that the proposal would enhance mission effectiveness and decrease hours of manpower spent performing repairs.
CMSgt Anthony Green, Command Chief of AFSOC, lauded the participants’ efforts in identifying solutions to improve their units. “This competition goes back to the roots of being an Air Commando,” Green said. “You have all demonstrated that people with an innovative mindset help get the mission done. You are each trying to make your units the best they can possibly be, and that’s really what being an Air Commando is all about.”
This year’s competition saw thirty-three new project submissions across all of AFSOC. Upon review of the projects’ feasibility, leadership selected eight teams to present to the final judging panel. The command awarded funding to six of the final projects.
Lt Gen Michael Conley, Commander of AFSOC, shared that in addition to awarding funding, the Thunder Dome competition aims to foster a culture of innovation and creativity, which in turn will help AFSOC outpace its strategic competitors.
“Across the board, I applaud you all for thinking outside the box—literally and figuratively,” Conley said.
The AFSOC innovation campaign is ongoing, and Air Commandos at all levels are encouraged to submit ideas to the AFSOC Innovation Campaign | GAIN | Guardians and Airmen Innovation Network for out-of-cycle funding consideration and to compete in the fiscal year 2026 Thunder Dome competition. It is never too early to submit.