The Jeep brand is advancing off‑road capability and design with the debut of the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops special edition, introduced as the first “mission” in the new “Convoy” campaign. As the first midsize truck to offer a factory‑installed winch, the Gladiator Shadow Ops sets a new benchmark for trail‑ready equipment in its class while signaling a fresh era of mission‑ready Jeep special editions. Designed as a limited‑run package built on the proven Gladiator Rubicon platform, Shadow Ops blends legendary Jeep performance with a bold, stealth‑inspired appearance aimed at the brand’s most demanding off‑road enthusiasts.
Unveiled from Auburn Hills, Michigan, the Shadow Ops arrives as the spearhead of the Convoy initiative, a campaign built around strength, unity and purpose in a series of special‑edition models. Rather than an air‑drop, Jeep positions the Gladiator Shadow Ops as arriving via a ground‑led military‑style convoy, underlining its rugged authenticity and mission‑focused character.
Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops’ Design and Off‑Road Hardware
Engineered on the Gladiator Rubicon chassis, the Shadow Ops package focuses on uncompromising off‑road dominance paired with an aggressive blackout aesthetic. Central to its hardware upgrades is a factory‑installed winch, giving drivers enhanced recovery capability straight from the showroom floor without the need for aftermarket modifications.
To match its enhanced functionality, the truck features heavy‑duty steel front and rear bumpers designed to withstand demanding trail use, and it includes a Trailer Tow Package for added versatility when hauling gear into remote locations. A Satin Black grille emphasizes the truck’s tactical look, while all‑weather slush mats provide practical interior protection in mud, snow and other harsh conditions that off‑roaders routinely encounter.
Stealth‑Inspired Blackout Look
Visually, the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops leans into a stealth theme with a comprehensive blackout treatment and unique exterior graphics. Exclusive Shadow Ops hood and fender decals, along with a dedicated tailgate decal and theme package, distinguish the truck from other Gladiator models and reinforce its special‑edition status.
Buyers can further refine the look with an available body‑color Freedom Top three‑piece hardtop, adding open‑air flexibility while maintaining the truck’s cohesive paint scheme. Matching body‑color fender flares are also available, creating a more integrated, premium appearance that complements the Satin Black grille and darkened accents.
Pricing, Availability and Value
The Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops package is priced at 4,995 dollars MSRP when added to a Gladiator Rubicon, positioning it as a focused performance and appearance upgrade. Jeep notes that this represents a step of only 2,605 dollars MSRP over a comparably equipped Rubicon fitted with a body‑color hardtop and body‑color fender flares, underscoring the value of the added winch, heavy‑duty bumpers and exclusive styling content.
This limited‑run edition is scheduled to arrive at Jeep dealerships across the United States beginning in February 2026, giving customers a defined window to secure the Shadow Ops configuration. As a mission‑ready model crafted for serious trail users, its constrained availability is designed to enhance exclusivity and collectability among Jeep loyalists.
Jeep Brand Heritage and Direction
The launch of the Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops aligns with nearly 85 years of Jeep history as a leader in SUVs that deliver off‑road capability, advanced technology and everyday versatility. Built on core values of freedom, adventure, authenticity and passion, the brand’s heritage informs the Convoy campaign’s focus on strength and unity through specialized, purpose‑built editions.
Today, Jeep offers a broad lineup powered by internal combustion engines, hybrid systems and all‑electric drivetrains, reflecting a commitment to innovation alongside traditional ruggedness. The Gladiator Shadow Ops is positioned within this portfolio as a symbol of how the brand continues to set standards for vehicles engineered to “conquer it all,” both in form and function.
