PROJECTED CMMC LEVEL REQUIREMENT
Level 2 (Self)
TECHNOLOGY AREAS
Air Platform
MODERNIZATION PRIORITIES
Trusted AI and Autonomy
KEYWORDS
Autonomous UAS; Leader-Follower Formation; AI-Powered Control; Resilient Communication; Terminal Guidance; Contested Environments
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this topic is to develop and demonstrate an affordable robust and reliable autonomous leader-follower UAS formation capability, enabling a single First-Person View (FPV) pilot to command and control multiple UAS effectively. This system should incorporate: seamless pilot reassignment in case of lead UAS failure, synchronized terminal guidance capabilities, and an innovative stasis mode for follower units to conserve energy and maintain position. Furthermore, the system must include advanced target designation features, allowing the lead UAS to mark targets for autonomous execution by follower units
ITAR
The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.
DESCRIPTION
The increasing complexity and scale of modern military operations demand unmanned aerial systems (UAS) capable of operating autonomously and collaboratively. Current UAS deployments often require dedicated operators for each platform, resulting in high personnel costs and increased cognitive burden on the warfighter. There is a critical need for UAS technologies that can significantly reduce operator workload while enhancing mission effectiveness and resilience, particularly in contested environments where communication and control links may be degraded or disrupted. The ability for a single pilot to effectively manage multiple autonomous UAS in a coordinated formation, with built-in redundancy and adaptive control, represents a significant advancement in UAS capabilities.
Offerors are encouraged to explore innovative approaches to autonomous UAS formation control, incorporating advanced AI algorithms, resilient communication networks (e.g., Neuron Mesh Networks), and robust sensor fusion techniques. The proposed solution should address challenges related to maintaining formation integrity, adapting to dynamic environments, and operating in GPS-denied or contested environments. Innovative approaches to stasis mode are encouraged, optimizing power consumption while maintaining situational awareness. Development should include:
AI-based Autonomous Control Algorithms: For leader-follower formation flight, obstacle avoidance, and target engagement.
Resilient Communication Network: A robust and secure communication network enabling seamless data sharing and control within the UAS formation (potentially leveraging Neuron Mesh Network technologies).
Synchronized Terminal Guidance: Algorithms for coordinated approach and landing of multiple UAS at designated targets.
Stasis Mode: An energy-efficient mode allowing follower UAS to maintain position and situational awareness while minimizing power consumption.
Target Designation System: A user-friendly interface for the pilot to designate targets for autonomous execution by follower units.
Pilot Reassignment Capability: A mechanism for automatic and seamless transfer of lead UAS control to a follower unit in case of failure or loss of communication
PHASE I
This is a Direct to Phase 2 (D2P2) topic. Phase 1 like proposals will not be evaluated and will be rejected as nonresponsive. For this D2P2 topic, the Government expects that the small business will have accomplished the following in a Phase I-type effort via some other means (e.g. IRAD, or other funded work). It must have developed a concept for a workable prototype or design to address at a minimum the basic capabilities of the stated objective above. The proposal must show, as appropriate to the proposed effort, a demonstrated technical feasibility or nascent capability to meet the capabilities of the stated objective. The proposal may provide example cases of this new capability on a specific application. The documentation provided must substantiate that the proposer has developed a preliminary understanding of the technology to be applied in their Phase II proposal to meet the objectives of this topic. Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results
PHASE II
This topic seeks to build upon prior research and development demonstrating the feasibility of autonomous UAS formation control and AI-based pilot assistance. Specifically, prior work has demonstrated the ability to control multiple simulated UAS with a single operator using AI-powered flight management systems. This Phase II effort will focus on transitioning these algorithms to real-world UAS platforms, integrating them with a resilient communication network, and validating their performance in realistic operational environments. The mid-term field test with a minimum of 3 UAS is a critical milestone demonstrating the advancement of the technology towards TRL 6.
Phase II Deliverables:
A fully functional and integrated prototype of the autonomous leader-follower UAS formation system.
A comprehensive technical report documenting the system's architecture, algorithms, performance, and limitations.
A detailed user manual for the system, including instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance.
A detailed transition strategy outlining the steps required to transition the technology to operational use.
Demonstration of the system's capabilities in relevant operational environments.
Desired Key Performance Parameters (KPPs):
Number of UAS controlled by a single pilot: Minimum 3 UAS
Formation maintenance accuracy: < 1 meter deviation from designated position.
Pilot reassignment time: < 5 seconds.
Terminal guidance accuracy: < 1 meter CEP (Circular Error Probable).
Stasis mode power consumption: < 10% of normal operating power.
Target designation accuracy: < 0.5 meter deviation from designated target coordinates.
Communication range: > 5 kilometers.
Autonomous operation time (without pilot intervention): > 30 minutes.
Special Considerations: Consideration should be given to cybersecurity vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS
Beyond military applications, this technology offers significant dual-use potential. Civilian applications include:
Search and Rescue: Coordinated UAS teams can rapidly survey disaster areas, locate survivors, and deliver aid.
Precision Agriculture: Multiple UAS can monitor crop health, optimize irrigation, and apply targeted treatments, improving yields and reducing resource consumption.
Infrastructure Inspection: Autonomous formations can inspect bridges, pipelines, and power lines more efficiently and safely than traditional methods.
Security and Surveillance: Coordinated UAS teams can provide enhanced security for critical infrastructure, large events, and border patrol operations.
The core technologies developed in this SBIR have broad applicability across both defense and commercial sectors, fostering economic growth and societal benefit.
REFERENCES
Department of Defense, Unmanned Systems Integrated Roadmap, FY2013-2038 https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA592015.pdf
2021 U.S. Department of Defense Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Strategy https://media.defense.gov/2021/Jan/07/2002561080/-1/-1/1/DEPARTMENT-OF-DEFENSE-COUNTER-SMALL-UNMANNED-AIRCRAFT-SYSTEMS-STRATEGY.PDF
Department of the Air Force Operational Imperatives, https://www.af.mil/Portals/1/documents/2023SAF/OPERATIONAL_IMPARITIVES_INFOGRAPHIC.pdf
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