The US is on the hunt for a prototype solution that could help its aircrews adapt to modern warfare threats.
Through a solicitation issued by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the effort is calling for an open, modular mission engine (OMEN) capable of running across different aircraft types without the need for platform overhauls.
The goal is to enable a “tactical moving map” that enhances in-flight situational awareness, giving troops a modern tool for identifying threats and making decisions in signal-denied environments.
The system must be compatible with existing aircraft hardware, including radios, onboard computers, display systems, and sensor subsystems, to provide aircrews with a real-time operational picture of the battlespace.
OMEN is also intended to serve as a foundation for rapid software development, allowing applications for emerging threats to be built and deployed faster while reducing reliance on slow acquisition cycles.
It is expected to help keep mission software updated over long periods without driving up sustainment costs.
Additional Guidelines
As part of the requirement, the OMEN solution must come with a software development kit that gives the US government greater control over the system and reduces dependence on external vendors.
A data integration layer is also preferred, allowing the platform to process multiple types of sensitive data without corruption or system failure.
While proposals are encouraged from US companies, submissions are also open to foreign firms with no financial ties to sanctioned countries.
Responses are due by April 15.
