Nuclear Enterprise Research & Development

The Commercial Capability Integration and Transition (PE 0606004F) program is a new initiative within the Air Force's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, specifically under Budget Activity 4: Advanced Component Development & Prototypes (ACD&P). The primary goal of this program is to leverage the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) process to identify, prototype, and rapidly field commercial technologies that address the evolving requirements of combatant commanders and warfighters. This approach aims to accelerate the integration of innovative solutions from the commercial sector into Air Force systems, with a particular focus on supporting the Air Force Nuclear Enterprise and Air Force Global Strike Command mission areas.

Commercial Capabilities Integration & Transition (CCIT) is the main project under this program element. The objectives of CCIT include performing commercial technology research and development, adapting and accelerating these technologies for Air Force applications, and evaluating their integration in high-fidelity, realistic operating environments. The program is structured to support advanced technology development and prototyping, as well as program management services.

A key objective of the CCIT program is to partner with a range of agencies and organizations to maximize the impact and reach of commercial technology integration. These partners include the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), OSD Research & Engineering (R&E), Rapid Defense Experimentation Reserve, Defense Innovation Accelerator, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), and the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). By collaborating with these entities, the program seeks to identify and transition critical science and technology capabilities into operational Air Force systems.

The program places significant emphasis on energizing the U.S. small business community, thereby expanding the defense industrial base and fostering innovation. By leveraging the SBIR process, CCIT aims to accelerate the Department of the Air Force's acquisition process, enabling rapid prototyping and demonstration of technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML), quantum computing, cyber technologies, advanced communications and networks, advanced propulsion, directed energy, and training systems. This approach is designed to ensure that the Air Force remains at the forefront of technological advancement and is able to respond effectively to emerging threats.

The justification for this budget line is rooted in the need to evaluate integrated technologies and prototype systems in environments that closely resemble actual operational conditions. This is critical for reducing risk, validating performance, and ensuring that new capabilities can be effectively transitioned to the field. The program's activities are scheduled to begin in the first quarter of FY 2026 and continue through FY 2030, reflecting a long-term commitment to technology evaluation and integration.

The acquisition strategy for the Commercial Capability Integration and Transition program is still to be determined, reflecting the program's new start status and its focus on flexibility and responsiveness to emerging technological opportunities. There are no prior year costs or related program funding summaries, underscoring the program's role as a fresh investment in accelerating the adoption of commercial innovations within the Air Force.