SBIR/STTR Research Award

Enhanced Operational Awareness for Drones via AI Co-Pilot

Award identifier fb7eb06d17f18e6d3a9cb75f7201e133a299bdbd4910909d5b6dd26018b8be35Awarding agency Department of Defense · Air Force

Award amount

$64,155

Program and phase

SBIR · Phase I

Award year

2025

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Award details

Awarding agency
Department of Defense
Branch
Air Force
Recipient company
VIGILARE AI, LLC
Proposal award date
2025-01-15
Contract end date
2025-04-17
UEI
EXCDH7ESD5J5
Solicitation number
X24.7
Topic code
AFX247-PCSO1

Research abstract

Niffy Drone Solutions LLC is pioneering the integration of AI technology to revolutionize autonomous drone operations for defense applications. Our patent-pending AI Co-Pilot enables real-time, autonomous decision-making, natural language interaction, and advanced situational awarenessŚeven in connectivity-constrained environments. This innovation addresses critical Air Force operational challenges, such as Tactical Air Dominance, Resilient Basing, and Moving Target Engagement, by significantly reducing operator workload and increasing autonomy.áAt the core of our solution is the AI Co-Pilot, which processes real-time sensor data from both onboard and external sources, providing a comprehensive, fused operational picture. Operators can interact with the system using intuitive natural language commands, enabling seamless control without specialized technical expertise. This design makes the system highly accessible while maintaining the precision and responsiveness required for defense operations. The AI Co-Pilot autonomously handles diagnostics, threat detection, and reporting, allowing operators to focus on high-level decision-making.áOur efforts include validating the Co-Pilotĺs autonomous capabilities in defense scenarios, such as surveillance, communication relay, and target tracking, using advanced machine learning algorithms. This capability enables the Co-Pilot to optimize mission parameters and provide actionable insights, enhancing decision-making in fast-paced tactical environments.As we advance, we will transition the AI Co-Pilot into full operational environments within the Air Force and explore broader applications in both defense and commercial sectors. Our solution aligns with the Air Forceĺs mission to leverage cutting-edge technology for future operational needs, offering flexible adaptation across mission profiles with minimal operator input.

Technology keywords

Not reported

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Agency intelligence

Department of Defense

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