University of Dayton and Local Firms Win Major Air Force Contracts for AI and Defense Projects
The University of Dayton won a $43.9M Air Force contract for AI development in crewed and uncrewed aircraft. Radial Research also secured a $94.9M contract for all-weather ISR systems.
University of Dayton Wins Air Force Contract for AI Development
The University of Dayton recently secured a significant contract from the Air Force to develop AI software tailored for both uncrewed and crewed aircraft. This marks a notable step in advancing AI technologies within military aviation systems.
Radial Research and Development Ltd. Secures Major STARS Project Contract
Radial Research and Development Ltd., based in Fairborn, was awarded a task order with a ceiling value of $94.9 million. This contract supports the Air Force’s Science and Technology Applied RF Systems (STARS) program, which is guided by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
The STARS project focuses on "sensing on all-weather ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) using nontraditional modes for persistent surveillance across multiple environments." The work will be conducted in Fairborn, with completion expected by August 25, 2031. The contract was highly competitive, with a dozen offers submitted.
University of Dayton Research Institute Awarded for HAARDCORE AI Effort
In Dayton, the University of Dayton Research Institute received a $43.9 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for a project called "Hybrid AI and Autonomy Research and Development Considered Operationally Relevant and Explainable" (HAARDCORE).
This initiative aims to mature AI and autonomy capabilities for sensing, analyzing mission space, generating and selecting courses of action, executing those actions, and evaluating mission performance for teams of aircraft. The contract involves developing AI software for both crewed and uncrewed systems, with work slated to finish by November 24, 2029. This was a sole source acquisition originating from AFRL at Wright-Patterson.
Beavercreek’s Butt Construction Co. Inc. Awarded Air Force Reserve Station Contract
Butt Construction Co. Inc., located in Beavercreek, secured a firm-fixed-price contract worth over $8.9 million, with a total cumulative face value exceeding $9.1 million. The company will construct a building at Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station in New York. This facility will house a boom operator weapons system trainer.
The contract was awarded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Louisville, Ky., with work expected to be completed by September 11, 2027. Five bids were submitted via an internet solicitation.
What This Means for IT and Development Professionals
These contracts highlight the increasing role AI plays within defense technology, especially in autonomous and semi-autonomous aviation systems. For professionals working in AI, software development, and systems integration, this signals growing opportunities in defense-related projects.
Staying current with AI advancements, particularly in applied research and operational AI, will be critical for those looking to engage with government contracts or defense technology sectors. If you're interested in expanding your AI skills relevant to such projects, consider exploring specialized courses and certifications.
- Latest AI Courses – Stay updated on new AI training opportunities.
- AI Automation Certification – Gain credentials that could enhance your qualifications for similar contracts.
