Agile, Interoperable, Modular, Secure Mission Computer

Mission computers provide U.S. pilots with the ability to see and control the battlefield with the advanced situational awareness and combat systems necessary to complete their missions. Platforms faces obsolescence issues associated with its mission computing systems. Addressing obsolescence is a costly process and typically results in a computing component that utilizes proprietary interfaces, limiting component affordability throughout its lifecycle. It could cost more than $2B to maintain proprietary technology on modern aircraft. An open-system architecture is needed that introduces modularity and commonality at the hardware/software level, reduces sustainment costs, speeds integration, reduces technical risks, and accelerates the deployment of airborne applications. Enhanced mission computers are critical for providing military personnel with real-time, comprehensive situational awareness. This includes integrating data from various sensors, communications systems, and platforms to create a clear and accurate picture of the battlefield or mission environment. To address this need, Intellisense Systems, Inc. (Intellisense), a lead integrator of avionics systems, proposes to develop a new Agile, Interoperable, Modular, Secure Mission Computer (ATLAS) that is in alignment with Modular-Open System Architecture (MOSA), Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA), and Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE) standards. ATLAS will be based on the 2nd-generation Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) concept, which replaces numerous separate processors and line replaceable units (LRUs) with fewer, more centralized processing units, thus enabling significant weight reduction and maintenance, integration of a system-on-a-chip processor, power supply, artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML) and novel 3U Open VPX modular housing. ATLAS directly supports the DoDÆs tri?service MOSA Memo for Service Acquisition Executives & Program Executive Officers by enabling MOSA to be applied to a broader set of systems. The merit and feasibility of the Phase I SBIR is to develop and produce Low SWaP-C mission computer with open system architecture for the replacement of aging/obsolete mission computer systems on legacy mobility, ISR, and SOF aircraft. Additionally, the modular, open systems architecture-compliant mission system computer/components using state-of-the-art technology could also be used on next generation manned mobility aircraft, fighter aircraft, uncrewed autonomous aircraft, as well as autonomous loitering/strike munitions (for DAF and other Service applications). During the Phase I effort, Intellisense will engage in discussion with the PEOs stating their interest in following the technology/product development for diminishing manufacturing source/legacy component replacement as well as potential use on future crewed/uncrewed aircraft and weapons.