Innovations in Distributed Collaboration for Tactical Environments

TECH FOCUS AREAS: Network Command, Control and Communications; Autonomy; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; General Warfighting Requirements (GWR) TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Sensors; Electronics; Information Systems; Battlespace OBJECTIVE: The Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate seeks innovation in a collaborative space augmenting the warfighter with tools and technology to safely, efficiently and accurately perform their duties. Examples of emerging technologies which could greatly enhance warfighter capability are voice interface to tactically deployed software systems, such as Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK), machine learning and/or artificial intelligence algorithms that leverage both currently deployed hardware and emerging commercial technologies, for revolutionary situational awareness and force collaboration. DESCRIPTION: This topic seeks innovative technologies for distributed collaboration, using Tactical Assault Kit (TAK), for enhancing warfighter efficiency, safety, and accuracy. As distributed collaboration evolves on the battlefield, so do the possibilities for integration of modern sensors, systems and advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning. Use cases for distributed collaboration are tremendously advancing in both the commercially and DOD-wide. Harnessing the power of innovation is often a cumbersome endeavor for the DOD, however the emergence of commonly deployed technology platforms has become exponentially beneficial. Successful development of innovative technologies for tactical collaboration not only benefit the end user of the technology but the larger enterprise, as well. The enhanced situational awareness and fortified software/hardware tool kit used by the tactical operator significantly impact the decision-making capabilities of connect leadership, through the chain of command. Additionally, there is a user community of 350k plus TAK users between commercial and federal users that could benefit from this technology. PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II. Therefore, a Phase I award is not required. The offeror is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a Phase I-like effort, including a feasibility study and customer discovery. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. PHASE II: Proposals should include development, installation, integration, demonstration and/or test and evaluation of the proposed solution prototype system. This demonstration should evaluate the proposed solution against the proposed objectives; describe how the solution will fulfill the AF's requirements; identify the technology's transition path; specify the technology's integration; and describe the technology's sustainability. Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution. PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Phase III efforts will focus on transitioning the developed technology to a working commercial or warfighter solution. If a viable business model for the developed strategy or algorithm(s) is demonstrated, the offeror or identified transition partners would be in a position to supply future processes to the Air Force and other DoD components as this new process is adopted. NOTES: 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 proposed tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with the Announcement and within the AF Component-specific instructions. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. Please direct questions to the Air Force SBIR/STTR Help Desk: usaf.team@afsbirsttr.us REFERENCES: tak.gov; https://takmaps.com/ https://www.afcea.org/content/army-tactical-assault-kit-always-adapting-new-era https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.atakmap.app.civ https://github.com/deptofdefense/AndroidTacticalAssaultKit-CIV KEYWORDS: TAK; ATAK; Artificial Intelligence; System Integration; Systems