Syracuse Research Corporation (SRC) has received a $24-million contract from the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to push next-generation embedded AI and machine learning (ML) onto ground, air, and space platforms.
The effort aims to bring advanced decision-making and real-time data processing directly to the edge, reducing reliance on distant networks.
Under the contract, SRC will develop new ML algorithms, high-performance embedded computing architectures, and ultra-low size, weight, and power hardware.
These systems are designed to operate independently, giving platforms on-board sensing, information analysis, and situational awareness.
By running complex algorithms locally, the project enables faster, more agile responses in rapidly changing operational environments.
The research will also explore ways to train and deploy ML models more quickly in dynamic threat scenarios, minimizing the data required for rapid updates.
The ultimate goal: improve real-time detection, classification, and threat assessment in environments where communications may be disrupted.
Supporting Defense Missions
SRC’s latest contract builds on a long-standing partnership with the US military.
Through AFRL, the company has early access to advanced low-power processors, speeding the development of cutting-edge technologies.
SRC also supports the US Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s (DTRA) Combatting Weapons of Mass Destruction program under a contract valued at up to $4 billion.
Under the initiative, the firm develops AI, ML, data science, and software solutions to help DTRA address both existing and emerging threats.
