Inside SAIC's Landmark $928M Air Force Tech Prototyping Endeavor
In a landmark move towards strengthening technological integration from intelligence into military operations, Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC) has secured a substantial task order amounting to $928 million, aimed at fostering prototype development and expansive engineering services for the U.S. Air Force’s missions.
The Tactical Advantage
The Air Force initiated this program under the umbrella of the Tactical Exploitation of National Capabilities (AF TENCAP), a rapid acquisition team endorsed by Congress. This initiative is dedicated to harnessing intelligence-derived technology solutions for military environments. SAIC’s role encompasses several responsibilities across 65 agencies within the Defense Department and intelligence community, a strategic alignment to the Department of Defense’s directives.
HOPE 2.0: Engineering the Future
Titled the Hyper-Innovative Operational Prototype Engineering 2.0 (HOPE 2.0), the contract is designed to propel the military’s efficiency in decision-making across domains like air, space, and cyber. As stated by SAIC’s Executive Vice President, Vincent DiFronzo, the urgency for a data-centric mission integration is pivotal for defense preparedness and maintaining U.S. supremacy on global fronts, including key regions like the Pacific.
Prototyping for Progress
The services covered under this task order include thorough research, development, testing, and evaluation processes. These are crucial components intended to prepare the prototypes for becoming significant programs of record, thereby ensuring rapid, effective operational deployment. HOPE 2.0 is a testament to the seamless integration with the Department of Defense’s Software Acquisition Pathway, thereby aligning with national priorities and challenges.
Innovative Collaborations
SAIC’s endeavor also involves collaboration with nearly a dozen traditional and non-traditional defense companies, ensuring a diverse technological input and delivery of pioneering technologies. Key sectors being focused on include sensor and data fusion, command-and-control mechanisms, and next-gen manufacturing processes, tailored to meet the nuanced demands of special forces and enhancing battlespace awareness capabilities.
As the lead contractor under the ASTRO vehicle, awarded in 2021 by the General Services Administration, SAIC stands at the forefront, steering this comprehensive initiative. As highlighted by Washington Technology, this proactive development not only enhances national defense but also underscores strategic foresight in military and intelligence affairs.
