Budget Account
3600F - Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Air Force
Budget Activity
04 - Advanced component development and prototypes
Description
The Tech Transition Program, managed by the Air Force, aims to bridge the gap between initial technology development and operational capability implementation. This initiative focuses on maturing new warfighting concepts, developing fieldable prototypes, and conducting experimentation to assess the military utility of transition-ready weapon systems. It aligns with the Secretary of the Air Force's Operational Imperatives and involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including Combatant Commanders and Major Commands, to ensure rapid integration of technologies into critical warfighting capabilities.
The Experimentation project within this program is designed to explore new concepts in operationally relevant environments. It aims to assess the potential competitive advantages of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, spectrum warfare, and agile combat operations. By conducting operational experimentation campaigns, this project seeks to provide robust information that can significantly reduce acquisition costs and timelines. The focus is on refining warfighting concepts through wargaming, simulations, and field experiments to ensure that the Department of the Air Force maintains a competitive edge.
Prototyping efforts under this program are directed towards demonstrating emerging technologies in an operational setting. These efforts include advancing legacy weapon systems, militarizing mature commercial technologies, and fostering partnerships for rapid technology transition. Key projects involve developing prototypes like palletized munitions systems and exploring novel aircraft designs such as blended wing body aircraft. These initiatives are intended to provide strategic advantages against adversaries by integrating innovative solutions into existing military frameworks.
The Architecture Design and Evaluation component is led by the DAF PEO C3BM and focuses on integrating command, control, communication, and battle management capabilities across the Air Force. This effort involves developing mission-focused architectures that support cross-cutting initiatives across various commands and agencies. By leveraging digital engineering and model-based systems engineering, this project aims to enhance the technical integrity of integrated systems within a high-fidelity operating environment. The goal is to ensure that new capabilities are effectively integrated into the broader Department of Defense architecture for improved operational effectiveness.