2026 Jeep® Gladiator Shadow Ops: A Mission-Ready Special Edition Built to Hold Its Value

Jeep^® just kicked off a new chapter in special edition vehicles, and the first release is a bold one. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops has officially been unveiled as the first mission in the brand’s new “Convoy” campaign — and it brings real off-road capability, not just appearance upgrades.

Built on the proven Jeep Gladiator Rubicon platform, Shadow Ops blends trail-ready hardware with a stealth-inspired design that feels purpose-built from the factory.

The First Midsize Truck with a Factory-Installed Winch

One of the biggest headlines? The Gladiator Shadow Ops becomes the first midsize truck to offer a factory-installed winch — a Jeep brand exclusive.

If you plan to off-road your Jeep, a winch isn’t just a cool add-on — it’s often a requirement. Many off-road parks and trails expect recovery equipment, and having it installed from the factory means it’s fully integrated, engineered, and covered the right way.

This is exactly the kind of upgrade that makes sense to buy off the line, not after the fact.

Stealth Styling That Jeep Enthusiasts Actually Want

Shadow Ops leans into a blackout aesthetic that feels clean, intentional, and very Jeep.

Satin Black grille for an aggressive, tactical look
Exclusive Shadow Ops hood and fender decals
Tailgate graphic and theme package
Body-color fender flares
Body-color Freedom Top three-piece hardtop

The combination of body-color fenders and hard top is something Jeep enthusiasts consistently look for — and yes, I’m always a sucker for that detail. Add in the blacked-out grille and it’s a look that feels special without being overdone.

Steel Bumpers Where It Counts

Another standout feature is the inclusion of heavy-duty steel front and rear bumpers. These are upgrades many Jeep owners add later when building their rigs — but Shadow Ops delivers them from the factory.

Paired with the available Trailer Tow Package, this setup adds real versatility for trail use, recovery, and everyday utility.

Why Factory Upgrades Matter (Especially for Financing & Resale)

This is something I talk about with my customers all the time: it’s often better to buy the upgrades from the factory rather than adding them later.

Here’s why:

Most banks don’t finance aftermarket parts
Thousands spent on mods rarely translate to resale value
Factory packages are easier to finance and easier to sell later

Special edition Jeeps — especially limited-run packages — tend to hold their value better than standard trims with aftermarket add-ons. Shadow Ops checks that box.

A Limited-Run Package with Strong Value

The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops package carries an MSRP of $4,995, representing only $2,605 over a comparably equipped Rubicon with body-color Freedom Top and fender flares.

For what’s included — winch, steel bumpers, blackout styling, and exclusive badging — that’s a strong value proposition straight from the factory.

Shadow Ops will arrive at dealerships nationwide beginning February 2026 and will be available in limited quantities.

What the Jeep Brand Is Saying

“The Jeep Gladiator has always stood for freedom and capability, Shadow Ops elevates that legacy to a whole new level. This package is built for our most passionate off-road enthusiasts, combining rugged functionality with a bold, covert look. Shadow Ops gives adventurers not just the tools, but the confidence and attitude to dominate any trail.”

— Bob Broderdorf, CEO, Jeep Brand

Is Shadow Ops Just the Beginning?

With the YouTube title “Jeep Convoy Delivery #1”, it’s clear Shadow Ops may be the first of several mission-ready Gladiator special editions. The Convoy campaign hints that more purpose-built packages could be coming next.

If this is the direction Jeep is heading — combining real capability, thoughtful design, and factory value — it’s a strong signal for what’s ahead.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops isn’t just another appearance package. It’s a thoughtfully built, off-road-ready special edition that delivers upgrades many enthusiasts actually want — without the financing and resale headaches of aftermarket builds.

For drivers who plan to wheel their Gladiator and want a limited-edition Jeep that holds its value, Shadow Ops is absolutely one to watch.