Josh Martin

Commercial space technology and capabilities will play an increasingly important role in military exploitation of the space domain, reducing R&D burdens on government agencies and lowering overall costs to the agencies. https://ow.ly/HYSV50TvR8x

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📢 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA): FY24/25 Naval Aviation North Stars Enterprise The Naval Aviation North Stars are strategic focus areas designed to orient enterprise-wide efforts to close key warfighting gaps. The North Stars provide an alignment framework to prioritize efforts across Programs of Record, advanced concept and technology demonstrations, and enabling acquisition, engineering, test, and sustainment activities. We invite our industry partners to join us in de-constructing these complex challenges, identifying gaps and defining unique solutions to deliver the capability the fleet needs at a cost our country can afford. Priority will be placed on potential solutions that achieve or enable the Naval Aviation North Stars, which are top warfighting capabilities. Stakeholders and organizational leaders align the North Stars to the Programs of Record (POR), advanced concepts and technologies and enabling acquisition, engineering, test and sustainment resources. The Naval Aviation North Stars include, but are not limited to: • Nuclear Command and Control Strategic Platform / Systems • Unmanned Carrier Aviation / Manned-Unmanned Teaming • Maritime Intelligence Surveillance, Reconnaissance (MISR) • Strike Fighter and Air Wing 4th / 5th Generation Aircraft Integration • Long Range Fires (LRF) • Counter Command, Control, Computers, Communication, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, & Targeting (C-C5ISRT) • Defend the Force / Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) • Force Mobility / Precision Approach and Landing Capability ➡️ Details here: https://lnkd.in/ew7GNeJU

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Department of Defense Releases the President's Fiscal Year 2024 Defense Budget. Summary of the FY 2024 Defense Budget Statement by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III The FY 2024 Defense Budget is $842 billion, a $26 billion increase from FY 2023 and $100 billion more than FY 2022. The budget is the most strategy-driven request ever produced, focusing on the People's Republic of China (PRC) as the primary pacing challenge. Key Investments: Readiness and Procurement: Largest investments ever in readiness and procurement, including $170 billion, the highest in history. Research and Development (R&D): Record investment of $145 billion. Nuclear Modernization: $37.7 billion to maintain a secure nuclear deterrent, including $5.3 billion for the B-21 bomber and $6.2 billion for the second Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine. Specific Allocations: Air Power: $61.1 billion for modernizing air forces, including F-22, F-35, and B-21 bombers. Sea Power: $48.1 billion for nine new ships and submarine programs. Land Power: $13.9 billion for Army and Marine Corps equipment modernization. Missile Defense: $29.8 billion for advanced missile defense systems. Space Capabilities: $33.3 billion for space-based systems and architecture. Pacific and European Deterrence Initiatives: Pacific Deterrence: $9.1 billion, a 40% increase from FY 2023, for air basing, missile warning, and posture improvements in the Indo-Pacific region. European Deterrence: $3.6 billion to counter Russian aggression, along with support for NATO and Ukraine. Support for Personnel and Families: Pay Raises: 5.2% increase for military and civilian personnel, the highest in over 20 years. Commissaries and Childcare: $212 million to reduce commissary costs and $33 million for childcare discounts. Family Housing: $1.9 billion for safe and quality housing. Modernization and Innovation: Technology Development: $145 billion for R&D, including $1.8 billion for AI and $687 million for rapid experimentation. Munitions: $30.6 billion for munitions, including hypersonic missiles and precision-guided munitions. Facilities and Resilience: $19.2 billion for facility improvements and $5.1 billion for base resilience against climate and cyber threats. https://lnkd.in/gGVqMbfZ

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Wondering how the security clearance adjudication process differs between the DoD and the DOE? Here's a quick breakdown. #clearancejobs #nationalsecurity

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The USAF is actively seeking to fortify its defense against the rising threat of small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS). The recently issued RFI aims to gather insights from industry on the latest C-sUAS capabilities, focusing on integration, development, & sustainment services. As the USAF looks to modernize its System of Systems (SoS), there is an imperative to identify & collaborate with innovative vendors who can deliver cutting-edge solutions to enhance national security. 1. Sensor & Effector Integration: Develop & integrate advanced sensors & effectors that comply with the latest SOSA & MOSA standards. -Outcome: Enhance the detection, tracking, & neutralization of sUAS threats, ensuring comprehensive protection of critical assets. 2. AI/ML Implementation: Implement AI & Machine Learning (ML) technologies for object detection, Rules of Engagement (ROE) suggestions, & automation of the kill chain. -Outcome: Reduce operator workload & increase the efficiency & effectiveness of C-sUAS operations. 3. Cybersecurity Enhancements: Integrate persistent cyber patching & security measures into the development process of C-sUAS systems. -Outcome: Ensure that systems remain secure against evolving cyber threats, maintaining the integrity & reliability of defense operations. CRG’s Advice for Industry 1. Stay Ahead with Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA): Adopt MOSA for rapid integration of software modules, external links, & third-party services. -Outcome: Ensure flexibility & scalability of systems to adapt to emerging threats & technological advancements. 2. Continuous Development & Integration: Commit to continuous development with rapid incremental deliveries to meet evolving mission needs. -Outcome: Keep pace with the dynamic threat landscape & ensure systems are always mission-ready. 3. Focus on Compliance & Standards: Ensure all systems & components comply with SOSA & MOSA standards for seamless integration. -Outcome: Facilitate interoperability & streamlined operations across multiple platforms & systems. Differentiators for Leading in the C-sUAS Space -Tech Innovation: Staying at the forefront of C-sUAS technology through continuous research, development, & integration of the latest advancements. -Operational Excellence: Delivering systems that enhance situational awareness & decision-making capabilities, ensuring effective threat neutralization. -Cyber Resilience: Incorporating robust cybersecurity measures that protect systems from evolving digital threats, maintaining mission integrity. The USAF’s quest to modernize its C-sUAS capabilities presents a significant opportunity for industry to showcase their innovation & expertise. Connect with CRG today to leverage our expertise & secure your position. Visit http://crgroupinc.com or contact us at [email protected] for more information. #DefenseInnovation #MilitaryTechnology #CsUAS #USAirForce #ISR #Aerospace #Cybersecurity #AI #MachineLearning #SOSA #MOSA

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The Senate Appropriations Committee’s FY25 defense budget bill highlights the urgent need for the Pentagon & Intelligence Community (IC) to fully leverage commercial space capabilities. The bill underscores gaps in current utilization plans and emphasizes the importance of integrating commercial solutions to bolster the High-Capacity, Find, Fix, Track, Target, Engage, and Assess Constellation (HCF). This new joint architecture, involving electro-optical, synthetic aperture radar, and ground moving target sensors, is pivotal for modern ISR operations. However, legislative scrutiny reveals concerns about the underutilization of robust commercial space capabilities, potentially undermining the US remote sensing industrial base. CRG’s SME Opportunities, Advice, Differentiators Opportunities: 1. Integration with HCF: Companies specializing in electro-optical, SAR, and GMTI sensors can play a crucial role in integrating commercial tech with the HCF constellation. 2. Tactical ISR Enhancement: Firms can support the ongoing pilot project for Combatant Commands to directly task commercial satellites, enhancing tactical ISR capabilities. 3. Commercial Augmentation: Businesses offering space-based PNT, environmental monitoring, and other satellite services can benefit from the $22 million allocated to augment these missions. Advice: 1. Align with Strategic Goals: Align your capabilities with the strategic objectives outlined by the Senate, focusing on enhancing the HCF and supporting tactical ISR operations. 2. Leverage Commercial Advantages: Emphasize the cost-effectiveness, agility, and scalability of commercial solutions compared to traditional government systems. 3. Engage Early: Proactively engage with Space Systems Command’s Commercial Space Office to position your technologies for integration and funding opportunities. Differentiators: 1. Proven Track Record: Highlight successful integrations of commercial technologies in defense and intelligence applications. 2. Cutting-Edge Innovation: Showcase advancements in sensor technologies and data analytics that can provide superior capabilities for ISR operations. 3. Scalability and Flexibility: Demonstrate how your solutions can quickly scale and adapt to evolving mission requirements, offering a resilient and robust alternative to traditional systems. The defense landscape demands rapid integration of commercial space capabilities. Firms must act now to position themselves as essential partners. Interested companies should act now to capitalize on this opportunity. Contact CRG today to leverage our expertise and secure your position in this critical defense initiative. For more information, visit crgroupinc.com or contact us at [email protected]. #CommercialSpace #SpaceAcquisition #ISR #DefenseInnovation #SpaceForce #SatelliteTechnology #ISRIntegration #DefenseContracts #MilitarySpace #TacticalISR #SpaceSurveillance #SatelliteIndustry #DefenseStrategy #CommercialSatellites #TechInnovation

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The U.S. Department of Defenses' accelerating demand for Operations and Maintenance components signals a growing opportunity for companies performing sustainment activities in the defense industrial base. While the U.S. Department of Defense's budget is only projected to increase by 2%, the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) budget looks to increase by ~10% during the same period. To seize this opportunity, defense contractors must proactively invest in supply chain and logistics operations to ensure availability of the right workforce, systems, supporting tools, and parts. My colleagues Brian Jones, Olivia A. White, & Rodion Kaplounov outlined how defense contractors should secure these key elements to maximize the most of the coming windfall:

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Collaborative Combat Aircraft, or CCAs, have been receiving a lot of attention lately. The Air Force Research Laboratory/Kratos XQ-58 is the first flying aircraft of this type, designed to be built quickly, in large numbers, and at low cost, but with relevant capabilities. Occupying a design space between an expendable munition and a high-end fighter, the reusable XQ-58 can fly at high subsonic speeds and range out to 3,000 NM. It is powered by a small turbofan engine with a dorsal inlet, has swept wings, and a V-tail. It is launched from a rail using rockets and lands using parachutes and airbags. It has a small weapons bay from which small UASs have been launched. The XQ-58 first flew in March 2019. Various versions since then are being used for autonomy/AI development and operational demonstrations; recently one with Marine markings conducted electronic attack demonstrations with F-35s. Another one was used to demonstrate conventional take-off using a wheeled trolley. The first XQ-58 is on display at the National Museum of the USAF in Dayton, OH. #cca #sweptwings #uavs #aeronautics #turbofans #jetengines #aviationhistory #aviationhistoryanddoodles https://lnkd.in/gss2NwkB

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AFSOC’s demand for 75 OA-1K aircraft represents an opportunity for companies focused on low-cost, adaptable aviation solutions. With Congress questioning the need, there’s room for contractors to prove how light attack capabilities meet evolving mission requirements. CRG’s SME-Based Opportunities, INTERIM Advice & Differentiators: Opp - Adaptable Light Aircraft Solutions: The OA-1K program faces scrutiny over its operational value. Providers who offer modular, mission-flexible aircraft solutions can address AFSOC's needs for diverse environments. -         Advice: Design and market aircraft with upgradeable sensors, weapon systems, and countermeasures, allowing quick adaptation to shifting mission profiles and threat landscapes. -         Differentiator: Clients who position themselves with flexible, multi-mission designs will be seen as future-proof solutions, able to rapidly adapt to evolving operational needs, setting them apart from rigid competitors. Opp - Data-Driven Justification & Fleet Optimization: AFSOC requires a solid case for fleet size. Companies offering data analytics for fleet optimization will support the justification process. -         Advice: Provide comprehensive fleet management and mission impact analyses, showing how light aircraft enhance operational effectiveness and cost savings across various threat environments. -         Differentiator: Firms that deliver quantifiable data and predictive modeling will establish themselves as strategic partners in AFSOC's decision-making, distinguishing them in a crowded market. Opp - Advanced Mission Integration for Low-Tech Platforms: As the threat landscape evolves, demonstrating how low-tech aircraft can be integrated with high-tech capabilities will be essential. -         Advice: Develop AI-enhanced targeting, ISR systems, and adaptive mission software for light aircraft, ensuring they remain relevant across different combat scenarios, including against advanced threats. -         Differentiator: Those integrating cutting-edge technology into low-cost platforms will be positioned as innovators, proving that light attack aircraft are more than single-purpose assets. Contact CRG today to leverage our expertise in securing your place as a key player in this evolving landscape. 👉 crgroupinc.com | [email protected] - Your Trusted Partner for Contract Success! #CRG #AFSOC #Aerospace #LightAttackAircraft #DefenseTechnology #ISR #MissionAdaptability #Aviation #DefenseInnovation #BudgetManagement #Engineering #PilotTraining #MilitaryAviation #AirForceModernization #USAF #AirForce

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NEWS: Shift5 is partnering with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems to embed observability into the MQ-9A Reaper for the USSOCOM and Air Force Special Operations Command. This partnership will modernize the MQ-9A Reaper through onboard data access and analysis to increase cybersecurity, readiness, and survivability of the drone. The Shift5 Platform reveals critical operational and cybersecurity insights that enable operators to move from data to decisions quickly and confidently. GA-ASI President David R. Alexander says "Shift5 represents a new class of dual-use defense tech business that can successfully operate at speed and scale with us to make an immediate impact for the warfighter.” According to Josh Lospinoso, “The battlefield of the future will include more remotely piloted, autonomous, and unmanned systems. Central to maintaining advantage in this operating environment is access to real-time data. Our work with GA-ASI represents one of the most efficient and effective ways that AFSOC and SOCOM can gain access to critical operational and cybersecurity insights, democratize that data, and maintain decision dominance.” https://lnkd.in/gJijSUGd

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‼️New Article Alert ‼️ Excited to share my latest piece on EurAsian Times: "Soaring Defense Budgets: $100 Billion by 2028 - What It Means for Global Security." In this article, I dive into the implications of the increasing defense budgets worldwide and explore the strategic, economic, and geopolitical factors driving this surge. As global powers ramp up their military spending, understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers, defense analysts, and industry stakeholders. 🔗 [Read the full article here](https://lnkd.in/g9kp-7QA) #DefenseSpending #GlobalSecurity #Geopolitics #DefenseBudget #MilitaryStrategy #EurAsianTimes #Article #DefenseIndustry

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Performance Defense CEO, Tim Bigelow, and President, Darren C., had some great engagements at #AFA's Air, Space, and Cyber Conference last week and look forward to seeing everyone again next year! While there were several talking points throughout the week surrounding the current state of aviation and space technologies, this panel discussion was a highlight. Read more on how the Air Force plans to embrace cyber as a weapon of war in this recap article: https://hubs.ly/Q02QDy4W0

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🚀 Exciting Concept Alert! Gibbs & Cox, a Leidos company, is revolutionizing naval defense with its Mobile Defense/Depot Platform (MODEP) Concept, unveiled at Sea Air Space 2024. Addressing the U.S. Navy’s capacity challenges in the Western Pacific, MODEP transforms surplus oil rigs into heavily armed mobile missile defense and resupply bases. Dave Zook, Solutions Architect & Combat Systems Department Manager at Gibbs & Cox, emphasized the urgency of solving capacity issues and keeping ships in forward stations. MODEP, a large floating island base, boasts a 12-month independent operation capability and offers stability even in waves up to 60 feet tall. It features 6-20 MW of extra mission power, a maintenance and repair shop, a 2.3 million gallon fuel capacity, and an initial payload capacity of 8000 metric tons. The concept supports air defense or strike missions at a capacity five times that of an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, with up to 512 vertical launch system cells or 100 large missile launchers. This includes support for larger missiles like hypersonics, meeting the Navy’s DDG(X) program requirements. Moreover, MODEP facilitates the sustainment of surface combatants and nuclear submarines through Afloat Forward Staging Base configuration, offering stable options for VLS reloading at sea, depot repair capability, and expanded mission potential. What's more, Gibbs & Cox estimates that conversion from civilian to military use could be achieved within approximately 24 months, utilizing existing offshore oil and gas technology. With 4-6 commercial platforms in the United States ripe for conversion, this concept promises a cost-effective and timely solution to critical naval defense challenges. Are you intrigued by this innovative approach to naval defense? Let's discuss how MODEP could shape the future of maritime security! #NavalDefense #Innovation #MODEP #SeaAirSpace2024

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The Army’s urgent need to replenish stockpiles & maintain readiness presents opportunities for manufacturers to secure large, long-term contracts. With $6bn in backlog authorizations, companies that can quickly ramp up production are well-positioned to win. The Army's inclusion of non-traditional suppliers opens doors for innovative firms to diversify & strengthen the supply chain. CRG’s SME Opportunities, Advice & Differentiators for Clients: Opps: - High-Value Contracts for Agile Production: Rapid replenishment of military stockpiles presents an opportunity for firms to introduce innovative, agile production methods. Re-engineering manufacturing processes to reduce lead times & increase output while maintaining quality offers significant potential. - Advanced Predictive Maintenance: Companies integrating predictive maintenance tech into production lines can reduce downtime & increase throughput. The Army’s readiness demands solutions that ensure uninterrupted production cycles. Advice: - Dual-Use Manufacturing: Leverage dual-use tech like 3D printing for rapid prototyping & critical component production. This accelerates production & allows rapid iteration & customization based on field feedback. - Distributed Manufacturing Networks: Establish on-demand, distributed manufacturing networks with mobile units closer to operational needs. These units can reduce logistics costs & time, offering flexible, rapid production. - AI-Driven Supply Chain Optimization: Use advanced AI to predict & resolve supply chain bottlenecks in real-time. Implement blockchain for end-to-end transparency & security, ensuring compliance with Army standards. - R&D in Energy-Efficient Processes: Invest in scalable, energy-efficient manufacturing processes that reduce operational costs & expand capacity. Explore novel materials that balance ease of processing with military-grade reliability. - Reconfigurable Production Lines: Design easily reconfigurable production lines that can scale up/down & integrate new tech without full overhauls, maintaining operational continuity while enhancing capabilities. Differentiators: - CRG’s SMEs in advanced manufacturing & dual-use tech integration enable clients to meet Army demands efficiently, focusing on scalable solutions that reduce production times while ensuring high quality. - CRG's Strategic Client Network includes leaders in distributed & mobile manufacturing, offering a tactical advantage by reducing logistics costs & response times, crucial for defense operations. - CRG’s Innovative Supply Chain Management allows clients to excel in AI-driven supply solutions, providing real-time insights & predictive capabilities that maintain a steady flow of materials, ensuring compliance. Engage with CRG to unlock innovative manufacturing strategies & secure high-value defense contracts. Contact us at [email protected] to explore cutting-edge solutions. #CRG #Manufacturing #AI #Production #SupplyChains #Logistics #DoD

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📣 Potential for some good changes in Army procurement. [Industry Article] Young Bang Details Army Efforts to Modernize Acquisition Processes To take advantage of the capabilities industry has to offer, the Army is embracing more flexible acquisition methods and moving away from strict adherence to traditional approaches. The Army recently released a directive calling for the adoption of a hybrid model, which he said “encourages all different types of things, encourages creativity, but doesn’t want us to default to firm-fixed-price.” https://lnkd.in/e_HQDZy6 #GovCon #SmallBusiness #Accounting #GovernmentContracting #GovernmentContractor #FederalContracting #FederalGovernment #DoD #Army #Procurement #Acquisition

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The US Navy's MQ-25 Stingray: Naval aviation innovation faces challenges, demands collaboration for futuristic carrier-based operations. #MQ25 #UnmannedRefueling #NavalAviation https://lnkd.in/gPtWmgG7

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The U.S. Air Force Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program represents a new approach to procurement, with an emphasis on design instead of sustainment. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Dave Allvin remarked recently that this approach will ensure that the Air Force can and must move on to new systems as the threat evolves. "I don't want a 30,000-hour on engine on that thing," he said of the CCA drones. "I don't want it for that long. I want to be able to upgrade it to something else, without it being cost-prohibitive because we've already sunk so much cost" into a sustainment enterprise. #defenseindustry #defensetech #defenseinnovation #USAF  https://lnkd.in/eQSDrksx

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Aviation Week Network featured SDA in their big AFA Air, Space & Cyber issue last week. As SDA moves the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (#PWSA) out of the demo phase and into operations, it was a great time to talk with reporter Vivienne Machi about delivering critical capabilities to the #warfighter like Link 16, advanced missile tracking and missile warning, and beyond-line-of-sight targeting. “If you look at all of our layers and the capabilities that we talked about, we really wanted to use focus as a superpower to make sure that we could deliver as quickly and efficiently as possible. And what I mean by that, we wanted to focus on the two main capabilities right beyond line of site targeting for time sensitive targets and advanced missile detection, tracking and targeting.” – SDA Director, Derek Tournear In the near future, SDA will begin a campaign of 10 launches to deliver more than 150 #Tranche1 satellites on orbit. We anticipate that the satellites will be operational by the end of 2025. To read more about what is next for SDA and Tranche 1, check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/euHKzctj #SemperCitius #Satellites #Defense #Link16

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During a three-week effort, Future Vertical Cross Functional Team (FVLCFT) partnered with U.S. Army DEVCOM C5ISR Center, U.S. Army DEVCOM Aviation & Missile Center and the U.S. Army Redstone Test Center (RTC) at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida to advance Launched Effects (LE) behaviors and characteristics for the #warfighter. FVL completed Phase 3 of the advanced networking waveform characterization during the experimentation. The team collected data on multiple radios and waveforms during multi-ship flights at extended operational ranges against both contested and uncontested environments. Data gathered will be used to inform future aviation modernization; and to validate, modeling and simulation efforts. The intent was to learn about the trade space of long-range air to air; and air to ground communications. The emphasis is increased range and endurance for future LEs combined with a low probability of detection, and a low probability of jamming from perceived threats. LE surrogates successfully demonstrated teaming behaviors, characteristics, and attributes against both contested and uncontested conditions as they negotiated the test area. The Eglin experimentation is a key component of the #FVLCFT efforts to help the US Army “transform in contact,” accelerating the delivery of technology, and capabilities into the hands of our warfighters. #DeliverArmy2030 #TransformInContact Army Futures Command I PEO Aviation I U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence I U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command

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