Army Seeks AI Solutions to Streamline Airspace Management
The Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to industry, targeting artificial intelligence technologies that can assist commanders in managing increasingly complex airspace environments. This push responds to the challenges posed by the growing integration of drones and other unmanned aerial systems (UAS) alongside traditional rotary-wing and fixed-wing platforms.
Conventional airspace management systems struggle to handle the volume and speed of data generated during operations. This limits commanders' ability to gain real-time actionable insights, especially as operations scale up in size and complexity.
Challenges in Modern Airspace Operations
- The rising number of drones and autonomous platforms complicates airspace control.
- Commanders must coordinate among friendly, neutral, and adversary forces, including electronic warfare threats.
- Real-time deconfliction and prioritization are critical to mission success and force protection.
The Secretary of Defense recently urged faster integration of small unmanned aerial systems across the military, adding pressure to improve airspace management capabilities. Alongside this, the Pentagon is developing counter-drone tools and advanced missile defense and command technologies to meet evolving threats.
AI as a Force Multiplier for Airspace Management
The Army is exploring AI-enabled solutions that leverage machine learning, predictive analytics, and automation to:
- Enhance situational awareness by analyzing real-time data from multiple sources
- Optimize airspace allocation and usage patterns
- Provide proactive recommendations for safety and operational efficiency
- Support rapid decision-making in contested and congested environments
These capabilities aim to reduce the cognitive load on commanders, allowing them to focus on strategic decisions rather than data processing.
Next Steps and Industry Engagement
Responses to the RFI are due by August 29, 2025. The Army plans to evaluate promising solutions during the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) Exercise 26-01 later this year.
The goal is to deliver a minimum viable product (MVP) for AI-enhanced airspace management that is operationally ready for deployment with the 25th Infantry Division by November 2025. This MVP should address the unique challenges of managing UAS in contested, congested airspace.
For operations professionals interested in the intersection of AI and airspace management, staying informed about these developments is crucial. Leveraging AI tools effectively will be key to handling future airspace demands safely and efficiently.
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