Relying on LEO satellite fleets is the path for the new network that will serve as the JADC2 satellite backbone, but modifying systems already on orbit is essential for the networks that will connect to that network.
“We’re moving to an era where a software-defined radio approach will essentially turn satellites into ‘smart satellites’ and will enable timely updates to onboard cyber defenses to address new threats and other near-real-time configuration updates on orbit,” Ron notes. As part of our digital engineering initiatives, Booz Allen is helping DOD innovate with technologies such as digital twins, which allows the military to find and mitigate vulnerabilities in existing systems as well as test new ones in development.
We also invest in research and development such as our 5G labs, helping clients customize strategies for their mission while mitigating cybersecurity risk.
AI Across the Mission
Although delivering data is essential for JADC2, analysis is just as important. “Data is only effective if you can apply knowledge to it. The human brain just doesn't have the capacity to go through the plethora of data we collect and decide quickly enough to respond to an imminent threat,” Ron says.
Our technologists work to advance AI in a range of areas. Some projects are breakthroughs in human-machine teaming: We developed an algorithm for the U.S. Air Force to test as the U.S. military’s first AI copilot. Others are defensive, for example, leading research in adversarial AI to prevent an attacker from tricking our algorithms. We also help defense organizations scale AI throughout the enterprise through AI operations (AIOps).
Insights at the Edge
One of our most powerful AI capabilities is deployment of AI at the tactical edge to support low size, weight, and power scenarios. We integrate models into existing hardware and equip edge nodes to send pared-down outputs so a more robust computing environment can improve the models and upload them to cloud-based networks for broader situational awareness in addition to relaying information back to the warfighter.
We also use AI to transform space missions: tracking objects in space, working with DOD to improve command and control, analyzing satellite data faster using computer vision, and advancing AI for more complex tasks such as predictive analytics.
