Architect & Cap for Autonomy in Nav Enter (AR

The Architect & Cap for Autonomy in Naval Enterprise (ARCANE) program is a Navy initiative focused on developing and sustaining a software enterprise architecture to support autonomous capabilities across Naval Aviation platforms. The program's primary objective is to procure and maintain essential elements such as software licenses, host hardware, and data center services that enable autonomy and interoperability between manned and unmanned systems.

ARCANE is designed to extend the efforts of the previous Common Control System (CCS) program, shifting its focus toward advanced autonomy, executive control, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning for Unmanned Systems (UxS). It operates under the Department of Defense Adaptive Acquisition Framework Software Acquisition Pathway, which is intended to accelerate the delivery of incremental autonomous capabilities to meet evolving operational needs.

This acquisition approach allows the program to respond more rapidly to the autonomy requirements of Naval Aviation platforms, moving at the pace of software development rather than traditional hardware-centric acquisition cycles. The program has entered the Planning Phase of the Software Acquisition Pathway and is awaiting Defense Acquisition approval, with a draft acquisition strategy in place that will be refined as planning progresses.

The ARCANE program aims to provide a common autonomy architecture framework for the Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE). This includes establishing processes for platforms to identify, achieve, and sustain autonomy needs, as well as creating a repository of autonomous behaviors that can be leveraged across multiple implementations. By standardizing autonomy architecture, ARCANE seeks to support high-end combat operations while minimizing impacts on platform schedules and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) business arrangements.

The program includes budget line items supporting its objectives. Software Production/Enterprise Architecture Production is dedicated to the development and deployment of the foundational software architecture that will underpin autonomous capabilities. This includes the procurement of software licenses and the establishment of host hardware and data center infrastructure necessary for operational support.

Software/Production Engineering Support provides funding for engineering activities required to integrate, test, and sustain the autonomy software within Naval Aviation systems. It covers technical support for software updates, troubleshooting, and ensuring that new autonomous behaviors are compatible with existing platforms and mission requirements. Integrated Logistics Support ensures that the ARCANE architecture and associated software are adequately supported throughout their lifecycle, including activities such as training, documentation, and supply chain management to maintain operational readiness and facilitate smooth deployment across the Naval Aviation Enterprise.

ARCANE also plays a key role in transitioning autonomy elements from the AVATAR Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) program, fielding initial MUM-T capabilities that serve as a foundation for future autonomous solutions. The establishment of these capabilities depends on integration with partner programs and alignment with their respective acquisition strategies. The program is scheduled for termination starting in FY 2025, with FY 2024 representing its final year of active funding and procurement activities. This reflects a strategic shift in Navy priorities and the completion of ARCANE's planned objectives within the current budget cycle.