Level 2 (Self)
TECHNOLOGY AREAS
Information Systems
MODERNIZATION PRIORITIES
Emerging Threat Reduction
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Quantum Science
KEYWORDS
AI-driven cybersecurity; post-quantum cryptography; quantum-resilient networks; threat detection; cryptographic compliance; mission assurance; legacy infrastructure; automated risk assessment; key management; Quantum Value Pipeline
OBJECTIVE
The primary objective of this Phase I SBIR effort is to develop and validate an AI-driven cybersecurity platform tailored to the Air Force District of Washington's (AFDW) urgent needs for post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) readiness. The proposed solution aims to enhance threat detection, cryptographic resilience, and mission assurance across high-value networks and communications managed by the 844th Communications Group (CG) at Joint Base Andrews and the National Capital Region. This project focuses on transitioning existing cryptographic assets to quantum-resilient standards to address quantum-enabled threats while minimizing disruptions to legacy infrastructure. Expected outcomes include the creation of a prototype that demonstrates automated threat detection, risk scoring, and compliance monitoring within Air Force environments, leveraging AI and machine learning technologies to ensure robust cyber defense mechanisms post-quantum era.
DESCRIPTION
The Air Force District of Washington (AFDW) and the 844th Communications Group (CG) at Joint Base Andrews face significant cyber threats from adversaries leveraging quantum computing capabilities. Current cryptographic measures are inadequate against quantum decryption techniques, which could compromise classified and sensitive data, crucial systems, and overall mission assurance. To address these vulnerabilities, this project proposes developing an AI-driven cybersecurity platform designed to transition existing cryptographic assets to post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) standards. This solution will enhance threat detection, cryptographic resilience, and mission assurance across high-value AFDW networks and communications.
The desired outcome of this project is to create a robust cyber defense system that integrates advanced machine learning algorithms for automated threat detection, risk scoring, and compliance monitoring. This platform will ensure seamless PQC integration while minimizing disruptions to the legacy infrastructure, ultimately safeguarding critical Air Force data and assets. The project will commence at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 3, focusing on analytical and experimental proof-of-concept, and aims to reach a TRL of 6 by the end of Phase II, demonstrating a system/subsystem prototype in a relevant environment.
The project will involve the following efforts and activities across its phases:
Phase I:
Conduct a comprehensive cryptographic asset inventory within the AFDW, identifying key management practices, storage locations, and interoperability with legacy systems.
Develop a clear mapping of existing cryptographic foundations to pinpoint areas needing quantum-resilient upgrades.
Establish success metrics, including detection accuracy and response times, for the AI/ML components of the solution.
Deliverable: A prototype demonstrating automated threat detection, risk scoring, and compliance monitoring, validated in simulated Air Force environments.
Phase II:
Enhance the prototype based on Phase I feedback, scaling the solution for broader network integration and real-world application within the AFDW and beyond.
Conduct extensive testing and validation of PQC algorithms in forensic cryptographic workflows, ensuring robust performance under diverse threat scenarios.
Deploy the fully developed platform in live Air Force environments, providing continuous monitoring and automated response capabilities.
Deliverable: A fully functional AI-driven cybersecurity platform with demonstrated effectiveness in operational Air Force settings, maintaining compliance with PQC standards and legacy system integration.
By leveraging a Quantum Value Pipeline framework, this project will significantly elevate the cybersecurity posture of the AFDW, addressing urgent post-quantum threats while maintaining mission-critical operations. The anticipated advancements in AI and machine learning will foster innovation and align with DoW cybersecurity policies, ensuring long-term resilience and superiority in the quantum era.
PHASE I
The Phase I effort will assess the feasibility of an AI-driven platform for PQC transition. Key goals include conducting a cryptographic asset inventory, mapping key management, storage, and legacy interoperability. Success criteria: a prototype demonstrating automated threat detection, risk scoring, compliance monitoring in Air Force environments, and metrics on AI/ML effectiveness, such as detection accuracy and response times.
PHASE II
Phase II will deliver a fully validated AI-driven cybersecurity platform, integrating post-quantum cryptography. Success includes achieving TRL 6 with seamless deployment in operational environments, confirmed through rigorous testing and compliance monitoring. Metrics: enhanced threat detection accuracy, response times, and robustness against quantum-enabled cyber threats, ensuring mission assurance for AFDW networks.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS
Phase III will focus on deploying the AI-driven PQC platform for real-world Air Force and commercial environments. Military applications include enhanced cryptographic resilience and threat detection in high-value networks. Commercially, the platform offers robust cybersecurity solutions for critical infrastructure. Expected TRL at entry is 6, advancing to TRL 9. Transition planning includes obtaining necessary DAF approvals and exploring collaboration with allies and private-sector partners.
REFERENCES
"China Launches Its Own Quantum-Resistant Encryption Standard, Bypassing U.S. Efforts, The Quantum Insider, Feb. 18, 2025. Accessed: Apr. 11, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://thequantuminsider.com/2025/02/18/china-launches-its-own-quantum-resistant-encryption-standard-bypassing-us-efforts/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
"Post-Quantum Cryptography Standardization," National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Accessed: Apr. 11, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://csrc.nist.gov/projects/post-quantum-cryptography
Air Force Doctrine Publication (AFDP) 3-12: Cyberspace Operations, Curtis E. LeMay Center for Doctrine Development and Education, Department of the Air Force. Accessed: Apr. 11, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.doctrine.af.mil/Portals/61/documents/AFDP_3-12/3-12-AFDP-CYBERSPACE-OPS.pdf
Department of Defense Cybersecurity Strategy, U.S. Department of Defense, 2024. Accessed: Apr. 11, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://media.defense.gov/2024/Feb/12/2003382912/-1/-1/1/DOD-CYBERSECURITY-STRATEGY-2024.PDF
M. Horvath, S. Almond, M. Brisse, and C. Dekate, Postquantum Cryptography: The Time to Prepare Is Now!, Gartner Research, Published: Jul. 1, 2024.
S. Almond, M. Horvath, and E. Davis, Justify, Build and Launch a Postquantum Response, Gartner Research, Published: Nov. 12, 2024.
M. Horvath, S. Almond, and B. Willemsen, Top Strategic Technology Trends for 2025: Postquantum Cryptography, Gartner Research, Published: Oct. 21, 2024.
