Pacific Defense Secures USAF Contract to Advance AI-Driven Electronic Warfare Systems

Pacific Defense, alongside its affiliate Perceptronics, has been awarded a significant follow-on contract by the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) to push the boundaries of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven Electronic Warfare (EW) systems. This 12-month contract, running until December 2025, builds upon prior advancements in EW mission system capabilities and takes a step further by incorporating cutting-edge AI and Machine Learning (ML) technologies to enhance the detection and processing of radio frequency (RF) emitters.

The project is rooted in the development and testing of the U.S. Government’s EW software frameworks, which adhere to Sensor Open System Architecture (SOSA) and Open Mission System (OMS) standards. These frameworks enable seamless integration of EW capabilities with various Air Force platforms. This effort reflects the Air Force’s commitment to modernizing its defense technologies by embracing an open architecture approach, which allows for modular upgrades and interoperability. The ultimate aim is to deploy these AI-enhanced capabilities in operationally representative environments using open architecture pods.

The Role of Perceptronics

Perceptronics plays a critical role in this venture, leveraging its expertise in developing advanced AI/ML applications to tackle some of the most complex challenges in modern defense. Elan Freedy, General Manager of Perceptronics, emphasized the innovative nature of the work, stating, “Our core focus is on the innovative application of AI and ML techniques to enhance the operational effectiveness of mission solutions.” The integration of AI/ML technologies will allow the systems to process RF signals more efficiently, identify threats faster, and adapt to changing operational environments in real-time.

Strategic Importance of the Project

Frank Pietryka, Vice President of EW, SIGINT, and Autonomy at Pacific Defense, underlined the national importance of this initiative. “The integration of these solutions into the Electronic Warfare mission is a national priority, and we are proud to collaborate with Perceptronics to support the USAF in addressing this critical challenge,” Pietryka said.

The contract work will primarily take place in three key locations: Nashua, New Hampshire; El Segundo, California; and Fairfax, Virginia. These hubs represent Pacific Defense’s commitment to innovation in C5ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Combat Systems, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), Electronic Warfare, and Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) technologies.

Embracing Modular Standards

Central to the project is Pacific Defense’s adoption of the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), a framework that promotes adaptability and scalability in defense technologies. By leveraging MOSA standards, the company ensures that its solutions are not only forward-compatible but also easier to integrate with existing systems. This aligns with the broader Department of Defense strategy to future-proof its technological investments.

Expanding AI Capabilities in EW

The use of AI and ML in Electronic Warfare systems represents a transformative leap. These technologies allow systems to autonomously recognize, learn, and respond to RF emitters, significantly enhancing their speed and accuracy. This capability is particularly crucial in high-stakes environments where rapid decision-making can be the difference between success and failure.

Pacific Defense and Perceptronics’ collaborative efforts under this contract are expected to not only improve the USAF’s EW capabilities but also set new standards for AI-driven defense applications. As these advancements are tested and implemented, they promise to enhance the operational effectiveness of the U.S. Air Force, reinforcing its position as a global leader in electronic warfare.