The Hatch Report (Issue #22)
DoD Opportunities
1) SOCOM PEO-Tactical Information Systems Special Notice: Drone in a Box (DIBs) Collaboration Event (CE)
The CE will assess production-ready solutions for the modular "Drone in a Box" (DIB) concept, which delivers ISR capabilities via Group 1 & 2 UAS (55lb MGTOW) and UGVs for use in challenging environments like dense urban areas or heavy tree cover where UAS may be less effective.
The DIB system must support rapid reconfiguration through a modular assembly package, including frames, propulsion, sensors, payloads (EO/IR/SIGINT), power, navigation, and communications. This adaptability enables Warfighters to meet dynamic mission requirements, e.g, surveillance, target tracking, and BDA. The CE will take place in seven phases, including Q&A sessions, evaluations, and a one-on-one pitch event with a SOCOM review panel.
Response Deadline: 24 March
2) SOCOM PEO-Fixed Wing Special Notice: Adaptive Airborne Enterprise (A2E) Assessment Event (AE)
Seeking industry partners to evaluate and enhance a government-owned Mission Autonomy Software solution for airborne ISR operations. A2E is an interoperable system of systems, enabling ISR capabilities through expendable autonomous sUAS platforms, resilient data paths, and common control architecture. Selected participants may receive funding for evaluation and integration efforts, with opportunities for future R&D agreements. The assessment event will take place in five phases, including Q&A sessions, evaluations, and a final demonstration.
Response Deadline: 24 March
3) NSWC Crane / CDAO Special Notice: Robust Artificial Intelligence Test Event (RAITE)
RAITE is a red/blue team test event focusing on AI and autonomy on a cyber-physical range to address critical technology gaps. The six scenarios are summarized below:
Scenario 1: Attack Aware Sensor Suite - Blue teams deploy a stationary computer vision and radar system to track UAVs and UGVs in an outdoor space with obstructed views, aiming to detect attacks on specific sensors and alert humans. Red teams launch reversible cyber or physical attacks with black-to-gray box access, while purple teams passively collect and analyze data from both sides. The primary goal is effective tracking, with a secondary focus on attack awareness and response.
Scenario 2: Multi-Agent Autonomous Search - Blue teams use collaborative UAVs and UGVs with sensor suites to search for and approach a physical target, with UGVs disarming it and UAVs relocating it. Red teams disrupt blue teams via reversible cyber or physical attacks with black box access, while purple teams observe and analyze. The primary task is locating the target, with secondary objectives of disarming and moving it a set distance.
Scenario 3: Data Poisoning - Blue teams provide a white box computer vision or LLM model for red teams to manipulate through data poisoning techniques, then evaluate the poisoned model’s performance during RAITE. Red teams attack the models with overt or covert data manipulation that can permanently alter them, while purple teams gather data passively. The goal is to assess how poisoning impacts algorithm effectiveness, tested with benign and altered datasets.
Scenario 4: LLM Attacks - Blue teams operate a local LLM (language-based or multi-modal) with set prompts, while red teams use reversible cyber attacks to degrade its capability or operator trust. Purple teams collect and analyze data without interference, and the scenario is new for 2025 with flexibility based on submissions. The focus is on disrupting LLM performance or confidence through digital means.
Scenario 5: Real-time Attacks on Computer Vision (CV) - Blue teams run real-time CV algorithms on security cameras to track humans in a building, while red teams use reversible cyber or physical attacks with varying white-to-black box access. Purple teams passively monitor interactions, and the goal is to test open-source and custom CV models against combined physical and digital disruptions. The primary task is maintaining detection and tracking under attack.
Scenario 6: The Big Picture - Blue teams defend critical infrastructure (SCADAs, AI-enabled cameras, and cyber systems) from red teams, who launch reversible cyber or physical attacks, prioritizing covert methods to evade detection. Purple teams analyze data passively, with the primary goal being undetected infiltration (e.g., sleeper cell tactics) and the secondary goal delivering a covert attack to disrupt SCADA hardware. The scenario simulates a broad attack on AI and non-AI targets in a critical infrastructure setting.
Response deadline: 4 April
Tentatively scheduled for Oct 2025: (New Mexico/virtual), 5 testing days, a total of 9 days, including setup/tear down
4) ARCYBER RFI: AI-Driven Penetration Testing Assessment Event
Seeks industry proposals for GHOSTCREW, an AI-driven platform to accelerate experience accumulation for Red Team and penetration testing operators. This prototype system aims to enhance operator effectiveness in conventional IT environments by offering real-time AI-assisted decision support with context-aware course of action recommendations, simulated attack outcomes based on tools and tactics, and a centralized repository of lessons learned integrated with threat intelligence.
Response Deadline: 9 April via Vulcan
Assessment Event: 7-9 May in Augusta, GA (for selected vendors)
5) DEVCOM-SC RPP: Contested Aerial Delivery Development (CADD)
Key components include an autonomous air vehicle, precision navigation sensors, secure C2 & mission planning tools. Minimum 250 lbs payload / 150 NM range, integrates with military airdrop platforms, and maintains stable flight in GPS-denied conditions. Top takeaways from the Q&A that was just posted:
No Integration with Legacy Systems: The new inventory management software is not required to integrate with existing Army systems like GCSS-Army, DPAS, or LMP, simplifying the implementation process.
AI Not Required: Customizable workflows are specified, but AI-driven automation, predictive analytics, or machine learning for demand forecasting and inventory optimization are not mandatory—considered a "nice to have" only.
Cybersecurity Under Local ATO: The software must comply with DISA STIG requirements and be supported by the vendor for security patches, but it will operate under the Army's local ATO, not requiring separate ATO support from the government.
Transition via CSV: Data from any incumbent software will be exported as a .csv file and uploaded into the new system, indicating a straightforward transition strategy without complex system interoperability.
Hosting Preference: On-premises hosting within Army data centers is preferred over commercial cloud solutions; cloud hosting (e.g., AWS GovCloud) is allowed only with FedRAMP approval and an Army P-ATO, which the vendor must obtain.
6) DEVCOM-SC RFI Inventory Management Software (Q&A posted)
Seeking next generation inventory management technology that goes beyond traditional WMS to drive employee engagement and efficiency through the supply chain to solve inventory tracking requirements utilizing a cloud-based platform which incorporates the ability to add specific functionality, i.e., user required nomenclature, user criteria, etc.
7) AFLCMC/Kessel Run RFI: Flight Operations Management Application
Seeks enterprise-level application to enhance aircrew scheduling, training, resource allocation, and operational readiness. Big emphasis on matching aircrew to missions, track qualifications, and manage certifications. Optimizing mission planning with live tracking of personnel, aircraft, and resources. Cloud-Based & Secure. Supports rapid updates.
Response Deadline: 7 April
8) Marine Corps Prepositioning Program (MCPP) Special Notice: Logistics and Planning Support
The MCPP ensures rapid deployment and sustainment of Marine Air-Ground Task Forces (MAGTFs) worldwide. The Maritime Prepositioning Ships (MPS) fleet currently consists of 12 ships, strategically located across two Maritime Prepositioning Force (MPF) Squadrons: MPSRON-2 in Diego Garcia and MPSRON-3 in Guam and Saipan. Each squadron is designed to sustain a MAGTF of approximately 18,000 personnel for 30 days of combat operations. These ships rotate through Blount Island Command in Jacksonville, Florida, undergoing a 42-48 month MPF Maintenance Cycle (MMC), during which they receive upgrades, equipment updates, and operational planning support to maintain mission readiness. The program also includes ashore prepositioning programs in Norway (MCPP-N) and the Philippines (MCPP-PHIL), forming an integrated logistics network to support crisis response, global reach, and forward presence.
The selected contractor will provide critical logistics, planning, and data management support, including ship load planning, mission tailoring, and the modernization of Marine Corps logistics systems. The contract also involves integrating automated identification technologies, supporting software maintenance, and providing field service representation for operational deployments.
Response Deadline: 18 March
9) DMEA Presolicitation: ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT PROGRAM (ATSP) V
The Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA) to solicit proposals for ATSP5, an engineering development and technology transition program designed to rapidly acquire, develop, and deploy advanced solutions. ATSP5 focuses on sustaining and enhancing mission-critical systems by addressing obsolescence, reliability, maintainability, and new threat adaptation through cutting-edge microelectronics and system modernization. The solicitation is expected to be issued on or about March 26, 2025, with all responsible sources invited to submit offers for consideration.
10) AFTC FAST CSO Call: 25th Multi-Domain Test Force (MDTF) Data Analytics Support
Seeks automated (AI/ML) analytical applications to extract RF and RF-related information. The applications will be able to extract information that includes, but is not limited to, radar pulse parametric information, communications signal characteristics, and the RF-environment for tests.
Response Deadline: 10 March
11) SDA RFI: Battle Management Multi-Mission Module (M3) Interface
Seeking industry input on interface documentation for the BMC3 M3. This effort supports the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) by enabling modular, interoperable space-based processing solutions.
Focus Areas: Standardizing M3 interfaces for seamless integration with SDA spacecraft. MOSA development. Enabling real-time mission processing, tasking, and C2 across a low-latency space mesh network. Ensuring adaptability through on-orbit updates.
Response Deadline: 11 April.
12) USAF Sources Sought: Distributed Common Ground System (AF DCGS) High Band Mission Application Services (HBMAS)
AF DCGS is the premier ISR system used globally by intelligence agencies. This effort ensures high operational tempo, security, and compliance through upgrades, modernization, integration, and cybersecurity, supporting DCGS elements as needed.
Response Deadline: 14 March
13) Air Force RFI: Mission Assurance Assessment Team (MAAT) Support
Seeks contractor support for mission assurance assessments, including planning, on-site vulnerability analysis, and post-assessment reporting. Contractors must provide qualified personnel with required security clearances to conduct assessments across Air Force commands. Responsibilities also include maintaining AFCAMS-Envision, integrating assessment data with DoD systems, and supporting analytics and reporting.
Response Deadline: 12 March
Industry Activity
14) Scale AI (with Anduril & Microsoft) Secures DIU Contract for "Thunderforge": AI-Powered Decision-Making for Operational and Theater-Level Planning
Thunderforge will use LLMs, AI-driven simulations, and interactive agent-based wargaming to plan and execute operations, with initial deployment to INDOPACOM and EUCOM. The system leverages Scale AI's agentic applications and GenAI test and evaluation expertise, Anduril's Lattice software platform, and state-of-the-art LLMs enabled by Microsoft.
THR's Take
The U.S. Advantage in Dynamic Mission Planning
Past THRs have highlighted dynamic mission planning as a defining strength of the U.S. military. Executing this at all echelons, incorporating all warfighting domains, while integrating joint forces and allied partners, demands years of training and generations of institutional experience. Many—including some in the PLA—view it as a uniquely American advantage rooted in superior human capital. Recognizing the effort required to replicate this capability, we can assume the PLA is aggressively pursuing its own "Thunderforge" equivalent to bridge this gap.
Measuring Operational Impact
The critical question is how to quantify the operational benefit of AI—and LLM-accelerated mission planning. Even the most dynamic, well-informed plan is only as effective as the force that executes it. If the PLA achieves parity in dynamic mission planning, can it effectively execute the plans generated by AI systems? How does this capability shift inform our broader assessment of comparative readiness? Specifically, how much weight does parity in dynamic mission planning carry within the overall readiness equation?
The importance of readiness takes on new urgency as the PLA closes gaps in critical warfare dimensions, particularly ISR-T and BMC2 (which would capture and transmit the data feeding these types of AI/LLM planning tools), long-range fires, and industrial capacity to sustain protracted operations.
Historically, China's military ambitions have been tempered by its lack of confidence in conducting complex operations. If the PLA overcomes this operational planning shortfall, how much will it impact their strategic decision calculus? This raises a series of broader questions about the intelligence community's ability to track PLA advances in AI/LLMs, how effectively they're being incorporated into operational planning processes, and then being able to measure the impact on dynamic decision-making cycles.
The Importance of Force-on-Force Training
To understand Thunderforge's true impact on readiness and operational effectiveness, DoD should trial it in large-scale, force-on-force exercises, such as those at the National Training Center. The goal is to determine whether units employing Thunderforge gain a decisive advantage in high-intensity, realistic scenarios—or whether these advantages are incremental.
Elevating Less-Experienced Units: Does Thunderforge significantly narrow the performance gap between inexperienced formations and those with more seasoned leadership? This could be critical should the U.S. have to rapidly mobilize and constitute new divisions/force structures from scratch.
Implications for PLA Developments: The results could shed light on what might happen if the PLA masters similar operational planning tools. If similar AI-based tools can indeed elevate the baseline proficiency of Chinese forces, we must factor that into any readiness comparison.
15) PMA-263 Purchase Order for AeroVironment’s Jump-20 VTOL UAS for Lithuania
Supports PMA-263’s Small Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems (STUAS) Program. The order includes the Jump-20 UAVs, payloads, support equipment, spare parts, training, program management services, and data essential for the integrated product team’s efforts.
16) HD Hyundai Executive Vice Chairman Chung Kisun Meets Palantir CEO Alex Karp to Discuss ‘AI Shipyard’
Since 2021, HD Hyundai and Palantir have been collaborating on the Future of Shipyard (FOS), a next-generation project integrating digital technologies, VR/AR, robotics, automation, and AI. They aim to complete an “Intelligent Autonomous Operating Shipyard” by 2030, boosting productivity by 30% and cutting construction time by 30%. The partnership also involves co-developing the unmanned surface vessel (USV) TENEBRIS and ongoing work with HD Hyundai Infracore.
17) Army Applications Laboratory Selects Mach Industries for Strategic Strike Aircraft
Mach Industries has been awarded a Q3 2024 contract by the Army Applications Laboratory to develop Strategic Strike, a vertical takeoff cruise missile with 290 km range and 10+ kg warhead capacity. The system will enable precision strikes for Company through Brigade-level units, integrating AI visual and RF sensing for GPS-denied environments. Strategic Strike aims to provide tactical units with HIMARS-comparable range and Hellfire effects while launching beyond enemy radar detection.
18) NSWCDD J&A For Textron’s Tsunami 24 USV
J&A suggests an urgent operational need. NSWCDD worked with Textron in 2019 on USVs for force protection missions and littoral operations. Texton’s recently unveiled Tsunam family of USVs includes 24-, 25-, and 28-foot variants with a payload capacity of up to 1,000 pounds and a range between 600 and 1,000 nautical miles. The USVs can also operate in up to sea state 4 conditions. Textron designed the new USVs in conjunction with the Illinois-based Brunswick Corp.
19) Epirus Raises $250M Series D Round to Boost Leonidas Production
Led by 8VC and Washington Harbour Partners LP, with returning investors like StepStone Group, T. Rowe Price, Gaingels, and General Dynamics Land Systems, plus new backers including Oppenheimer, NightDragon, and Manhattan Venture Partners. The funds will fuel U.S.-based innovation and manufacturing, starting with a cutting-edge simulation center opening in Q3 2025 in Oklahoma near Fort Sill’s Joint Counter-Small UAS University. More manufacturing upgrades and process improvements are slated for announcement later this year.
20) NAVSEA Awards Texton Contract for Mine Countermeasure Unmanned Surface Vehicle software development, payload integration, and sustainment support
If all options are exercised, work will continue through December 2027. This contract was not competitively procured (only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements).
21) Danti Equips U.S. Government Users with Global Insights on Demand in Public Sector Launch of AI-Powered Knowledge Engine
Designed for experts and non-experts alike, Danti allows users to ask questions using natural language and quickly receive data-driven responses in near real-time. Danti's knowledge engine takes a deployed service member with “no intel experience and gives them the power of a 15-year GEOINT analyst," said Founder and CEO Jesse Kallman. Danti uses AI to rapidly synthesize vast swaths of multi-modal information collected across government, commercial, and open data systems, enabling users to navigate workflows efficiently and secure actionable decisions and answers. For the past year, Danti had been working with the USSF, NGA, and other intelligence and civilian agencies to refine the system's capabilities.
22) Raft Launches [R] AI Mission System: Lightweight, Autonomous AI for Every Edge
[R] AI Mission System ([R] AIMS) is an innovative, lightweight AI platform that unifies data, AI agents, and large language models (LLMs) to accelerate high-confidence decision-making.
For Acquisition Professionals – Streamlines contract management, enabling rapid AI prototyping, cutting contract processing time by 40%, and reducing implementation costs by 35%.
For Operators – Fuses data, AI agents, and LLMs to deliver real-time intelligence, accelerating analysis and decision-making by up to 30x.
For Military Decision Makers – Enhances decision accuracy by 65% through autonomous data fusion and AI-driven insights, transforming legacy systems into agile, mission-critical assets.
For Policy Makers – Modernizes without disruption, eliminating costly system overhauls while upgrading legacy infrastructure for advanced warfare.
23) Percepto leverages AI power to pilot remote inspections at Chevron
The test case launched near Midland, Texas, was designed to evaluate the impact of AI-driven autonomous monitoring on Chevron's facility management. An important driver for the test was a reduction in time spent on the road for field teams, allowing personnel to focus on other valuable activities in the basin.
The Percepto technology leverages AI in a couple of ways. First, the drone itself flies on automated missions with logic built in from pre-programmed flights. Secondly, when the drone is on a mission, AI built into the software enables automated alerts when it detects any anomalies to normal operations.
24) SensorOps Announces DIU Selection of SynDOJO as UAS Software Simulation
Built on advanced simulation technology, SynDOJO enables dynamic scenario creation, multi-platform training, and seamless integration with operational tools such as TAK and GIS applications. Its capabilities support a wide range of mission sets, from low-altitude tactical reconnaissance to high-altitude ISR operations, providing operators with an immersive, adaptable training environment.
25) ICEYE and Saab cooperate to integrate advanced space-based radar data to military command systems
ICEYE, the global leader in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites, and Saab today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cooperate on the development and integration of advanced space-based radar data in Saab's Command and Control Systems (C2).
26) Physical Sciences Inc. Awarded $2M DARPA contract for Expeditionary Carbon Utilization for energy Resilience and Stabilization (ExCURSion)
Seeks to combine the advantages of batteries and fuels by developing a portable, closed, rechargeable expeditionary power system which stores energy as carbon-based fuel. The incorporation of carbon combustion, capture, and fuel regeneration into a single unit will marry the high energy density of carbon fuels with the rechargeability and operational flexibility of batteries.
27) Thinaer Empowers Defense Industry to Meet DoD Digital Engineering Mandate 5000.97 with Real-Time Operational Visibility
Thinaer's precise, real-time telemetry data accelerates digital transformation by seamlessly integrating asset tracking, environmental monitoring, and utilization metrics directly into digital engineering initiatives.
The DoD Digital Engineering Mandate 5000.97 requires defense contractors to adopt advanced digital processes to increase transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency. Thinaer supports compliance by providing continuous visibility into asset locations, equipment health, and workflow performance, essential for effective digital twin implementations and lifecycle management.
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