Jeep has always had a knack for special editions, but the new Gladiator Shadow Ops actually brings something useful to the table. Building on the Gladiator Rubicon platform, this tactical-themed variant marks a first for the midsize truck segment: a factory-installed winch.
A Brief History of Jeep’s Pickup Legacy
The Gladiator nameplate has roots stretching back to 1962 when Kaiser Jeep introduced it as a full-size pickup based on the Wagoneer platform. That original Gladiator and its J-Series successors ran until the late ’80s, cementing Jeep’s reputation for rugged, body-on-frame trucks before the brand took a multi-decade hiatus from pickups. When Jeep revived the Gladiator name in 2020, it returned as a midsize offering built on the Wrangler platform. With the Shadow Ops edition, you get that same emphasis on utility, if not more so.
Factory Winch Changes the Game
While competitors like the Chevy Colorado ZR2 and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro differentiate themselves with suspension upgrades and tire packages, Jeep’s new headlining feature is an integrated a Warn winch integrated directly into a heavy-duty steel front bumper. It’s cleanly mounted between recovery hooks and tucked just beneath the seven-slot grille, maintaining the truck’s aggressive profile. The package also includes matching steel rear bumpers for durability.
The stealth aesthetic carries through with a satin black grille, plus signature Shadow Ops decals across the hood, fenders, and tailgate. Rather than going full blackout like many special editions, Jeep opted for body-color fender flares and a body-color three-piece Freedom Top that doesn’t overdo the monochrome treatment.
In terms of interior updates, you pretty much only get all-weather slush mats. Some might expect edition-specific decals and the like, but this Shadow Ops is certainly more function over form.
Spec Sheet
Model: 2026 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Shadow Ops
Engine: 3.6L V6
Power: 285 hp ; 260 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Package Price: +$4,995 over base Rubicon
Total MSRP: $56,995 (base Rubicon starts at $52,000)
Key Features: Factory-installed Warn winch, heavy-duty steel bumpers (front/rear), satin black grille, Shadow Ops decals, body-color Freedom Top, body-color fender flares, all-weather mats
Limited Edition: Yes
Availability: February 2026
Pricing & Availability
The Shadow Ops package adds $4,995 to the Gladiator Rubicon’s $52,000 starting price, bringing the total to $56,995. Orders open at dealerships nationwide in February 2026.
Recap
2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops
Jeep’s new Gladiator Shadow Ops is the first midsize truck to come with a factory-installed winch, which is a legitimately useful addition for anyone who actually plans to hit the trails. It’s based on the Rubicon and adds tactical styling plus heavy-duty steel bumpers for $4,995, arriving at dealerships in February 2026.
