White Paper

Embedded Cognitive Computing and Artificial Intelligence for Military Applications (part 1)

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7 Secure embedded AI processing system building block. Commercial solutions for classified programs (CSfC) certified SSDs offer for the highest level of data storage integrity. It is imperative to protect this information, and the hardware and technology that supports it from all competitors. This is the essence of embedded security and built-in trust, which should be holistic across hardware, firmware, software, facilities, personnel access and processors used. Security and trust are not "nice-to-have", in the modern competitive environment, they are critical. A failure in this domain could set a nation behind its competitors. Once IP has been compromised, the events that led up to it cannot be walked back. Another white paper in this series will set out the technologies and requirements to build-in the highest security assurance through systems security engineering (SSE), cyber resiliency and trust. AI made ready for flight safety certification Vehicle autonomy is a critical use of AI because the algorithms assist in detecting objects to avoid (or follow) and perform actions without human intervention. Commercial and defense mobile platforms have mission computers to control their effectors (e.g. avionics, vetronics, fire control, etc.) that are required to prove high levels of reliable, deterministic and safe operation. Safe operation means that both the hardware and software have been shown and documented to be highly deterministic and reliable. Such systems can be relied upon to act appropriately based upon inputs and application parameters. Varying degrees of reliability and critical function execution are validated through Design Assurance Level (DAL) certification, including DO-254 for hardware and DO-178 for software. These certifications are difficult if not impossible to add-on after a module/system has been designed. High levels of demonstrable safety assurance are required before automatous vehicles are permitted to take to the skies and streets. Another white paper in this series describes how to build in and prove inherent flight safety worthiness. Next generation defense electronics business model For the best commercial technology to be deployable for military applications, it requires a modern approach to defense electronics business, investments and strategic positioning. This approach enables the DoD to retool and evolve more efficiently and effectively, as it is fully compatible with defense industry requirements. The approach is known as the next generation defense electronics business model. The next generation defense electronic business model is a hybrid model. It combines the best innovation engines and investment strategies from the commercial electronics domain with efficient, reactive manufacturing capabilities and makes them suitable for defense applications. With the infusion of embedded product and infrastructure security, trust and defense grade miniaturization and rugged packaging, next generation defense suppliers meet today's defense electronics innovation and deployment requirements. Another white paper in this series describes in detail how to leverage this business model to deploy commercial AI in military systems. Summary AI is of increasing interest to commercial and military entities, both nationally and internationally. While the convergence of multiple technology trends seems to be a forcing function and the proliferation of machine learning software is impressive, there are significant technical and commercial challenges that complicate its adoption within the military domain. "Simply put, I would characterize AI as what you may roughly know as a revolution in military affairs. This is a game changer for our adversaries if they get to AI, if they get to quantum computing before we are there. This is why it's so critical that we continue our research, continue our work towards it." - Lt. Gen. Paul Nakasone, President Trump's nominee to be the next commander of U.S. Cyber Command Regardless, AI is a revolutionary technology that is creating both threats and opportunities. AI is moving out of the confinements of the data center and becoming embedded in all types of platforms, including military ones. Simultaneously, international competitors are investing heavily in AI technology for competitive advantage through offensive and espionage operations and missions. These competitors view AI as more than a force multiplier and tactical differentiator, they see it as a means to tip the balance of power, in their favor. All branches of the military are funding, developing and evaluating AI. Applications include: • War games – Simulations - Training • ISR – Radar - 3D terrain simulation - Navigation • Cognitive electromagnetic spectrum maneuverability – Spectral efficiency • Holistic situational awareness - Sensor fusion • EW/cyber-attack and protection • Scalable and resilient networks Secure embedded AI processing subsystem. Safety certified flight and mission computer with multiple flight-safety zones for AI and effector processing in one box.

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