OHB Digital Connect to Develop AI-Driven Battle Damage Assessment System for Bundeswehr

OHB Digital Connect GmbH, a subsidiary of OHB SE, has been entrusted by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) to craft cutting-edge operational concepts for battle damage assessment (BDA). This initiative marks a pivotal leap for the German military as it seeks to streamline and automate damage evaluations on the battlefield, using modern sensor data and advanced artificial intelligence (AI).

In essence, battle damage assessment involves evaluating the effectiveness of military strikes—whether they've successfully neutralized a target and the extent of collateral damage caused. Historically, this process relied heavily on manual evaluations, which often resulted in delays and inconsistent data. By employing AI-driven systems, OHB Digital Connect is looking to revolutionize this process for the Bundeswehr.

At the core of the study lies a focus on image processing methods, enhanced by AI. The primary aim is to create systems that can automatically assess data captured from various sensors, such as cameras mounted on aircraft. These systems will interpret physical, functional, and impact data in near real-time, allowing for faster and more accurate assessments on the battlefield. The idea is to automate these evaluations to provide commanders with precise information quicker, minimizing the need for repeated airstrikes or engagement with targets that may no longer pose a threat.

According to OHB Digital Connect's Project Manager, Susanne Heimberger, the inclusion of AI in BDA is critical for streamlining decision-making. "Solving this task with camera data from aircraft is a necessity for the Bundeswehr. It helps to maintain an overview and avoid unnecessary effort in target engagement,” Heimberger explains. By leveraging their expertise in sensors, image processing, and AI, OHB Digital Connect aims to provide the Bundeswehr with an effective solution that meets both operational and strategic needs.

The project itself is being carried out as a collaboration between several key players in the defense and tech space. OHB Digital Connect is the lead contractor, responsible for defining the analysis methods that will form the backbone of the system. They are joined by notable partners like ESG, Fraunhofer FHR, Fraunhofer IOSB, and IABG, all of whom bring their specialized knowledge in fields like radar technology, optics, and AI.

This ambitious project will provide Bundeswehr with an initial system concept aimed at optimizing situational analysis and accelerating the decision-making process in battle scenarios. The introduction of AI to process sensor data means that this system will be able to process complex inputs at an unprecedented speed, delivering critical information on damage impact almost instantly. This, in turn, helps commanders to make informed decisions, avoiding unnecessary operations, and better targeting enemy forces.

OHB Digital Connect is no stranger to innovation, especially in the fields of aerospace and defense technology. The company has a track record of providing high-tech solutions, and with the growing importance of AI and automation in military operations, this latest project fits perfectly into their portfolio. Their work in developing this concept could pave the way for future AI-driven military solutions, further integrating technology into critical defense operations.

By working closely with organizations like Fraunhofer FHR and Fraunhofer IOSB, both renowned for their expertise in radar technology and optical systems, OHB ensures that this project will be grounded in cutting-edge research and development. Furthermore, as AI continues to evolve, the methods developed in this study could be expanded to include other areas of military assessment, allowing for broader applications beyond just battle damage evaluation.

In the broader scope of defense innovation, the Bundeswehr’s move to adopt AI-driven BDA systems highlights the increasing reliance on technology in modern warfare. With threats becoming more complex and the pace of battle ever faster, the ability to quickly assess damage and make decisions is crucial. This project is part of the Bundeswehr’s broader effort to modernize its military capabilities and stay competitive on the global stage.

As the development of this AI-driven concept progresses, it is expected that the Bundeswehr will gain a substantial edge in terms of speed, accuracy, and overall operational effectiveness when it comes to assessing the impact of military actions.