FALCON: Flexible Architecture for Long-range Coordinated Orientation and Navigation

FALCON (Flexible Architecture for Long-range Coordinated Orientation and Navigation) delivers a transformative approach and prototypes of navigation resilience for hypersonic and supersonic systems operating in GPS-degraded or denied environments. By developing a modular Testing Open System Architecture (TOSA), powered by market-leading Artificial Intelligence (AI) modeling and simulation technology and a proven non-profit military hardware research organization, FALCON enables seamless integration and evaluation of Alternative Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (alt-PNT) technologies, such as celestial, inertial, and terrain-aided navigation. This architecture aligns with NAVWAR, SOSA, and WOSA standards, addressing the Navy’s need for a scalable, interoperable framework to rapidly adopt and field advanced navigation solutions. FALCON uniquely leverages lessons learned from a prior SBIR efforts in open zero-trust system development for decentralized command and control of autonomous systems to deliver a transition-ready, TRL 7+ system that integrates alt-PNT technologies into a cohesive, validated solution for use in Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed (MACH-TB) environments. Its AI-driven development enables precise navigation in contested conditions, while the open architecture accelerates innovation and reduces integration timelines. The program's rigorous testing plan, incorporating hardware-in-the-loop simulations and dynamic field demonstrations, ensures compliance with DOD Instruction 5000.89 and Navigational Warfare (NAVWAR) testing standards. With its modular, scalable design, FALCON enhances operational readiness and provides a critical pathway for transitioning advanced navigation technologies into Navy Programs of Record. This ensures the Navy remains at the forefront of navigation resilience, mission flexibility, and technological superiority in modern warfare.