Cognitive Terrain Flight Model Development

The Army SBIR Phase I opportunity titled "Cognitive Terrain Flight Assistance" seeks to enhance Army Aviation’s ability to operate helicopters and uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) in complex, unfamiliar, and high-threat environments. This initiative addresses a critical challenge in military aviation: safely navigating terrain at low altitudes, especially when traditional sensors and pilot training prove insufficient for unfamiliar locations. The solicitation is released under Topic Number A254-014 in Solicitation 25.4 and aims to support innovative research in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to develop cognitive flight assistance technologies. Army aviators often conduct operations near terrain features such as hills, trees, wires, and buildings to avoid enemy detection and threat systems. However, limited visibility and unfamiliar topography present significant hazards. Despite training, pilots cannot match their performance in known environments when flying in new regions. This need has become more pressing as threat systems become more sophisticated and the Army increasingly relies on UAS, which also require advanced terrain avoidance capabilities. In Phase I, the SBIR will fund feasibility studies up to $250,000 over a six-month period. Selected projects must demonstrate the ability to accurately replicate terrain using digital twins suitable for simulation-based flight modeling. These simulations will prepare the foundation for machine learning models designed to understand terrain and aircraft performance dynamics in future development phases. The ultimate goal is to develop cognitive tools capable of reducing collision risks and improving flight path planning. Phase II will build on the initial research to produce a working prototype of the terrain flight assistance model. It will utilize reinforcement learning techniques and demonstrate effectiveness in simulated environments and real-world testing, likely with pilot-controlled UAS. Phase III will explore broader applications beyond military use, including commercial aviation, air traffic control, autonomous drone operations, agriculture, forestry, and critical mineral exploration. Interested applicants should submit their full proposal package through the DSIP Portal by the close date of March 26, 2025. No pre-application such as a Letter of Intent is required. All relevant technical and administrative inquiries can be directed to the SBIR|STTR Help Desk at usarmy.sbirsttr@army.mil. This opportunity does not specify recurring deadlines, and there is currently no indication that it will repeat in future cycles.

Demonstrate terrain modeling fidelity and integration capability in Phase I. Highlight feasibility for real-world flight testing to strengthen proposal.