SBIR/STTR Research Award

AI Algorithm for Autonomous UAV Control

Award identifier ec4e84335ebf26171ca325189e4e39b69b0c9d81d04be9833c1099d8670cd6a1Awarding agency Department of Defense · Air Force

Award amount

$74,412

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
JETX LLC
Proposal award date
2025-01-14
Contract end date
2025-04-17
UEI
PTWTM6CAL6F7
Solicitation number
X24.7
Topic code
AFX247-PCSO1

Research abstract

This project aims to develop an advanced AI system for autonomous UAV control, leveraging high-fidelity simulator data to train a sophisticated AI and neural network. The system has demonstrated remarkable capabilities in simulated combat environments, successfully operating aircraft and continuously improving its performance through self-learning mechanisms.The proposed research extends these capabilities into real-world combat scenarios, enabling the AI to effectively control both simulated and real aircraft simultaneously. Key aspects of the technology include:Advanced AI Architecture: Utilizing a hybrid deep reinforcement learning and model predictive control system, the AI adapts to complex, dynamic environments in real-time.Sim-to-Real Transfer: Cutting-edge transfer learning techniques effectively translate skills learned in high-fidelity simulations to real-world UAV control.Multi-Agent Coordination: The system can manage multiple UAVs simultaneously, enabling sophisticated swarm tactics and coordinated operations.Combat-Specific Capabilities: The AI demonstrates proficiency in dogfighting, squadron coordination, precision strike operations, electronic warfare management, and defensive systems deployment.Adaptive Learning: Continuous self-improvement through AI vs. AI simulations and real-world feedback loops ensures ongoing enhancement of capabilities.Seamless Integration: The solution is designed to integrate with existing UAV hardware and USAF systems, ensuring compatibility with current military infrastructure.Phase I will focus on adapting the AI algorithm for specific UAV control tasks, integrating it with high-fidelity simulation environments, and conducting extensive feasibility assessments. It will also demonstrate initial hardware compatibility using a small-scale UAV platform, showcasing the AI's ability to control basic flight maneuvers in a controlled environment.The potential impact of this technology is significant:Enhanced military readiness through integrated virtual-physical trainingReduced cognitive load on human operatorsImproved mission success rates in complex, contested environmentsCost-effective force multiplication through autonomous swarm capabilitiesIncreased survivability of UAV assets in high-risk scenariosThis approach aligns closely with key DoD initiatives, including the USAF Autonomous Systems Development Program, the DoD's AI Strategy, and DARPA's Collaborative Operations in Denied Environment (CODE) program.By developing AI pilots that can match or exceed human performance across both simulated and real environments, this technology aims to provide the USAF with a transformative capability that significantly enhances its UAV operations. It has the potential to redefine air combat tactics, improve training methodologies, and provide a substantial tactical advantage in future conflicts.

Technology keywords

Not reported

Other awards by this recipient

Verified by the same UEI. These are other public SBIR/STTR award pages, not a merged company record.

Awards with the same topic code

Verified by an exact topic code match. This is not a text-similarity match.

Research funding history

3 SBIR/STTR records share this UEI (2024–2025). Reported award amounts total $502,007. Reported amounts are not federal obligations.

Phases: Phase I

Agencies: Department of Defense

Agency intelligence

Department of Defense

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