Automated Test Systems

The Automated Test Systems (ATS) program, under Program Element PE 0701212F, is an Air Force initiative focused on the research, development, and modernization of automatic test systems for a wide range of weapon platforms. The primary goal is to ensure operational readiness and technological superiority for USAF warfighters by developing, acquiring, delivering, and sustaining ATS capabilities. The program supports over 8,000 testers impacting all major commands and the Joint Force, with a strategic emphasis on cyber-resilient and nuclear-certified systems to safeguard national security and mission success.

ATS Modernization and Digital Transformation is a core objective, aiming to accelerate the transition of legacy systems to modern, digital architectures. This includes leveraging Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), agile software development, and open systems architecture to enhance agility, responsiveness, and efficiency. The modernization effort supports persistent logistics and agile combat employment concepts such as scalable, wireless, and cable-less ATS, smart ATS, and rapid reprogrammability. Funding is directed toward engineering and manufacturing development, modernization of equipment for all major USAF weapon systems, and integrating digital engineering into legacy testers.

Common Armament Tester Fighters (CAT-F) is a major line item within the ATS program. The CAT-F initiative consolidates requirements for fighter armament testers, replacing fragmented legacy systems with a common, cyber-secure, and nuclear-certified solution. CAT-F will support platforms including the F-15, F-16, A-10, and potentially F-22 and F-35. This addresses vulnerabilities in current tester environments and improves both operational security and logistical efficiency. The program follows a phased engineering and manufacturing development approach, with competitive source selection, demonstration, and down-select processes to ensure the best solution is fielded.

Common Aircraft Portable Reprogramming Equipment (CAPRE) Secure Memory Loader Verifier (SMLV) is another significant objective. CAPRE SMLV is designed to securely load operational flight programs to weapon systems and is government-owned and developed. It supports over 45 Mission Design Series (MDS), including A-10, B-1, B-52, C-5, C-17, C-130, CV-22, F-15, F-16, H-60, and KC-46, with future expansion planned. Research, development, test, and evaluation funds are used to develop a Network Interface Module (NIM) for additional cyber hardening and to redesign the CAPRE system for compatibility with new and legacy platforms. The goal is to provide a single, cyber-secure memory loader verifier to minimize vulnerabilities across the Air Force.

Bomber Armament Tester (BAT) was previously a key program aimed at replacing six legacy testers for the B-2, B-1, and B-52 platforms with a single, nuclear-certified, cyber-secure solution. Although the BAT program has been cancelled, remaining funds are allocated to contract closeout actions and support for studies related to legacy bomber testers. The original objectives included developing common test sets and program documentation to ensure the bomber fleet's readiness for nuclear deterrence and global strike operations.

The ATS program also includes funding for administrative costs, studies, and research to support the entire ATS fleet, including digital transformation initiatives. Civilian pay expenses for direct cite authority positions are forecasted to increase, reflecting the growing complexity and scope of ATS modernization efforts. These funds support program management, independent verification and validation, nuclear certification, and cyber security authority functions necessary to execute and deliver ATS capabilities.