TL;DR:
- The Catalyst Accelerator Colorado Springs is seeking AI/ML technology solutions for Space and Maritime Applications.
- Applications are open to US-based small businesses and startups with dual-use technology.
- The problem statement aims to find ways for the US Space Force and US Navy to introduce commercial capabilities using AI/ML.
- Machine Learning is a subset of Artificial Intelligence focused on machines learning and imitating human behavior.
- AI is expected to enhance task automation and decision support for defense personnel.
- The Catalyst Accelerator is looking for domestic solutions with commercial viability across various technologies.
- Topics of interest include object detection, automation of planning and visualization, AI/ML at the edge, and more.
- An “Ask Me Anything” session will be held on June 21, 2023, to address inquiries.
- The application deadline for the Accelerator is July 5th, 2023, at 5:00 PM MT.
Main AI News:
The Catalyst Accelerator Colorado Springs, powered by Air Force Research Laboratory, Space Vehicles Directorate, is inviting submissions of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) technology solutions for Space and Maritime Applications. This exciting opportunity is part of the upcoming 3-month fall Accelerator, and applications are currently being accepted from US-based small businesses and startups that possess dual-use technology applicable to both the US Space Force (USSF) and the US Navy (USN). The primary objective of this Accelerator is to address the following problem statement:
“How can the United States Space Force and the United States Navy leverage commercial capabilities to drive innovation in operational mission environments using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning?”
Machine Learning, a branch of Artificial Intelligence, focuses on the ability of machines to learn and imitate intelligent human behavior. It involves information systems that have the capacity to learn without being explicitly programmed to do so.
From the perspective of the Department of Defense, the integration of artificial intelligence is expected to enhance task automation and decision support, enabling the US Guardians, Sailors, Airmen, Soldiers, and Marines to effectively defend our nation. Machine learning, with its descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive functions, has the potential to revolutionize day-to-day operations and training by equipping the USSF and USN with cutting-edge technologies. As highlighted in Presidential Executive Order 13859, titled “Maintaining American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence,” continued American leadership in AI is crucial for the economic and national security of the United States, as well as for shaping the global evolution of AI in accordance with our nation’s values, policies, and priorities.
The Catalyst Accelerator is seeking domestic solutions that not only demonstrate commercial market viability but also span a wide range of relevant technologies. Mature solutions may even have opportunities for demonstration through training exercises involving operational users.
The following topics are of particular interest to this Accelerator:
- Object Detection and Image Analysis/Battle Damage Assessment/Automated Target Recognition in support of operations.
- Automation of planning and visualization.
- AI/ML at the edge, including Neuromorphic Computing.
- Pattern-of-Life Analysis is used to identify abnormal behaviors within complex environments.
- Self-healing algorithms.
- Verification in deployed environments with feedback. Adaptations to changes on the fly decision support paired with assessment validation.
- Automation of legacy functions.
- Cross-domain detection and adaptation.
- Automated tracking and planning capabilities for complex threats.
To address any queries related to the current Catalyst Accelerator problem statement or general program questions, an “Ask Me Anything” session will be held on June 21, 2023, at 10:00 AM MT. Interested applicants are encouraged to participate. The application deadline for this Accelerator is July 5th, 2023, at 5:00 PM MT.
Conlcusion:
The Catalyst Accelerator’s search for AI/ML technology solutions for Space and Maritime Applications signifies a significant opportunity within the market. This initiative presents a platform for US-based small businesses and startups to showcase their dual-use technologies and contribute to the innovation of operational mission environments for the US Space Force and the US Navy.
With the focus on integrating commercial capabilities through AI and ML, there is a clear demand for advancements in automation, decision support, and leading-edge technologies. This not only creates avenues for growth and market viability for participating businesses but also highlights the market’s increasing reliance on AI/ML solutions in the defense sector.
The Catalyst Accelerator serves as a catalyst for collaboration, providing a unique chance for entrepreneurs to demonstrate their expertise and potentially secure partnerships with operational users. As the Accelerator progresses, it is expected to drive advancements in AI/ML technologies, shaping the market landscape and contributing to the economic and national security of the United States.
