From Manitoba Fields to Backcountry Trails: The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops

The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops arrives in Brandon this winter as the first mid-size truck to offer a factory-installed winch—a feature that changes how serious off-roaders and rural operators approach recovery situations. Built on the proven Rubicon platform, Shadow Ops combines practical trail gear with a tactical blackout aesthetic designed for those who work and play in demanding terrain.

For Manitoba drivers who navigate everything from muddy field access roads to rocky backcountry trails, Shadow Ops delivers equipment that matters: heavy-duty steel bumpers, a factory winch, and the legendary Gladiator capability that includes up to 3,492 kg (7,700 lbs) of towing capacity. This limited-run edition represents Jeep's most trail-focused Gladiator package yet.

What Makes Shadow Ops Different

Shadow Ops launches Jeep's new "Convoy" campaign—a series of mission-ready special editions that prioritize function over flash. Unlike appearance packages that stop at decals, Shadow Ops equips the truck with recovery and protection hardware from the factory.

The factory-installed winch stands as the defining feature. Recovery situations on remote trails or rural properties no longer require aftermarket installation or dealership modifications. The winch integrates directly into the front bumper system, maintaining warranty coverage and proper electrical integration.

Heavy-duty steel front and rear bumpers provide protection beyond what standard Gladiator trims offer. These bumpers handle impacts from rocks, stumps, and trail obstacles that would damage conventional bumpers. The rear bumper includes integrated trailer tow capability, maintaining the Gladiator's full towing rating.

Rubicon Foundation, Shadow Ops Upgrades

Shadow Ops builds on the Gladiator Rubicon platform, inheriting its core capability features:

• 3.6 L V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque
• Eight-speed automatic transmission
• Rock-Trac 4x4 system with electronic front and rear locking differentials
• Up to 77:1 crawl ratio for technical terrain
• Up to 29.4 cm (11.6 inches) of ground clearance
• Up to 80.0 cm (31.5 inches) of water fording capability

The Rubicon's approach angle reaches up to 44.7 degrees, with departure angles up to 26 degrees and a breakover angle of 20.9 degrees. These specifications allow Shadow Ops to clear obstacles that stop conventional mid-size trucks.

Shadow Ops adds to this foundation with its blackout aesthetic. The Satin Black grille, exclusive hood and fender decals, and tailgate graphics create a cohesive tactical appearance. Body-colour fender flares and the three-piece Freedom Hard Top complete the visual package while maintaining the Gladiator's open-air versatility.

All-weather slush mats protect the interior from mud, snow, and field debris—practical additions for trucks that see real use.

Trail-Ready From the Factory

The factory-installed winch eliminates the most common Gladiator modification. Aftermarket winch installation typically requires bumper replacement, electrical modifications, and suspension adjustments to handle the added weight. Shadow Ops handles these integrations at the factory, maintaining full warranty coverage.

Steel bumpers provide mounting points for recovery gear and protection in trail situations. The front bumper accommodates the winch while maintaining approach angle. The rear bumper integrates trailer wiring and hitch receiver, supporting the Gladiator's maximum towing rating of 3,492 kg (7,700 lbs).

The Trailer Tow Package comes standard, including the wiring harness, brake controller interface, and hitch receiver. For Manitoba operators hauling livestock trailers, equipment trailers, or recreational toys, Shadow Ops arrives ready to tow.

Open-Air Versatility Meets Truck Utility

The three-piece Freedom Hard Top allows multiple configurations. Remove the front panels for an open-air driving experience, or remove all three sections for full open-air operation. The body-colour finish matches the blackout theme while providing weather protection when needed.

The Gladiator's cargo box provides space for tools, equipment, or gear. Combined with the payload capacity of up to 780 kg (1,720 lbs), Shadow Ops handles both recreational and work-related hauling.

The enhanced door hinge system introduced for 2026 makes door removal faster than previous Gladiator models. This feature supports the Gladiator's open-air heritage while maintaining structural integrity for trail use.

Manitoba-Ready Capability

Manitoba's diverse terrain demands versatile capability. Shadow Ops handles:

• Rural Properties: Navigate field access roads, muddy approaches, and uneven terrain with confidence. The winch provides self-recovery capability when conditions deteriorate.
• Backcountry Trails: Rock crawling, mud runs, and technical obstacles become manageable with Rubicon-level articulation and the factory winch for recovery situations.
• Winter Conditions: Ground clearance and 4x4 capability handle deep snow. All-weather mats protect the interior from slush and salt.
• Towing Needs: Full towing capacity supports equipment trailers, livestock trailers, and recreational hauling without compromise.

The Gladiator's combination of off-road capability and truck utility serves Manitoba drivers who need one vehicle for multiple roles.

Limited Availability

Shadow Ops arrives as a limited-run edition. Production numbers remain limited, making early ordering important for those who want this specific configuration. The package will be available at Brandon Chrysler in early 2026.

The Gladiator lineup for 2026 also includes Sport S, Willys, Mojave, Mojave X, Rubicon, and Rubicon X trims, providing options across different capability levels and price points. Shadow Ops represents the most trail-focused factory package available.

Experience Shadow Ops at Brandon Chrysler

The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Shadow Ops brings factory-installed recovery capability and tactical styling to Manitoba's most capable mid-size truck. For drivers who need genuine off-road equipment rather than appearance modifications, Shadow Ops delivers functional upgrades built into the purchase price.

Visit Brandon Chrysler to learn more about Shadow Ops availability and configuration options. Our team can walk you through the Gladiator lineup and help you determine which trim level matches your specific needs—whether that's farm work, trail riding, or daily driving with weekend adventure capability.