The funding opportunity outlined in the document focuses on the development of Cognitive Terrain Flight Assistance, primarily aimed at enhancing the safety and efficacy of Army Aviation operations in tactical environments. The goal of the program is to create cognitive decision-aiding technology that leverages machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) to support aviators when performing low-altitude flights near challenging terrain. This is crucial because even with advanced sensors and training, aviators face limitations when navigating in unfamiliar or complex terrain, particularly in high-threat environments. The technology being developed would assist aviators in maneuvering helicopters or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) by reducing the risk of terrain and obstacle impacts.

The development is planned in phases, starting with Phase I, which will focus on demonstrating the feasibility of capturing high-fidelity digital twin terrain. This simulation will integrate the terrain into a flight model and lay the foundation for implementing cognitive machine learning. Phase II will advance this model to develop a functional prototype for Cognitive Terrain Flight Assistance, utilizing machine reinforcement learning to reduce the risk of terrain collisions. The technology will be tested initially in simulations, followed by real-world flight demonstrations using uncrewed aircraft. Phase III will explore potential dual-use applications, extending the technology beyond military use into commercial sectors such as air travel, drones, agriculture, forestry, and energy.

This opportunity is funded under the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, with a focus on innovation in advanced computing, software, AI, and autonomy. The funding for Phase I is capped at $250,000 with a 6-month performance period. The program highlights the importance of this technology in improving Army aircraft survivability, especially in environments where terrain and obstacles present significant operational challenges. The document outlines potential applications for this technology in sectors like air travel, drone services, and industries requiring navigation through complex landscapes.

Applicants interested in this program must demonstrate the capability to meet the outlined objectives, particularly the ability to develop and integrate machine learning models for terrain flight assistance. As this is a Phase I proposal, the focus is on feasibility rather than full-scale development, setting the stage for further research and development in Phase II and beyond.