The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for the development of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled software tool aimed at optimizing cargo packing, configuration, and deployment planning for the U.S. Space Force (USSF). The objective is to enhance mission readiness by significantly reducing packing time and errors, optimizing spatial usage, and integrating maintenance and load planning actions, all while functioning effectively in contested or disconnected environments. This initiative is critical for improving the efficiency of Space Logistics cargo operations, which are essential for rapid response to crises and mission requirements. Interested parties must submit their proposals by August 20, 2025, with the opportunity being open for applications starting July 2, 2025. For more details, visit the official solicitation page at [SBIR.gov](https://www.sbir.gov/topics/12152).

OUSD (R&E) CRITICAL TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Sustainment & Logistics 

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws. 

OBJECTIVE: The objective for this effort is to develop an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled software tool to optimize the packing, configuration, and deployment planning of U.S Department of Defense (DoD) cargo across a variety of container types. The solution must enhance agility, reduce packing time, and integrate maintenance and load planning actions while functioning in contested, disconnected, or coalition environments. It should support activity tracking, intelligent inventory mapping, and dynamic, on-the-fly reconfiguration based on real-time operational inputs. The system should allow user-friendly interaction through advanced Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI), offer edge compute capabilities, and be adaptable to different user needs, cargo types, and mission constraints. The end goal is a scalable, dual-use tool that enhances mission readiness while also offering commercial logistics value. 

DESCRIPTION: Space Logistics cargo operations—such as those involving Readiness Spares Packages (RSPs)—are vital to enabling the U.S. Space Force (USSF) to respond quickly to crises, contingencies, or emerging mission requirements. These operations rely on containerized systems (e.g., ISU-90s, 463L pallets, and custom bins or boxes) to preposition equipment, spares, and supplies. However, the current process for preparing and packing these systems is time-consuming, largely manual, and prone to errors, which limits readiness and agility. The USSF is seeking an innovative AI-enabled solution to optimize the packing, configuration, and deployment of cargo containers for movement to forward locations or spaceports. The desired tool should: 

- Significantly reduce packing time and errors; 
- Optimize spatial usage, weight distribution, and container selection; 
- Provide real-time visibility into packing activity and container contents; and 
- Integrate maintenance and load planning considerations into the cargo configuration process. 

The system should ingest standard logistics data, such as National Stock Numbers (NSNs) and UTC (Unit Type Code) information from Major Command (MAJCOM) or Field Command (FLDCOM) sources, and output detailed container-level packing plans. It must support various container formats, be adaptable to different cargo profiles (including hazardous or classified items), and provide activity tracking and operational alerts to assist planners and personnel throughout the pack-out process. Solutions should prioritize user-centered design, enabling intuitive interaction through advanced HMI such as voice recognition, touch screens, or augment reality/virtual reality (AR/VR). The tool must be operable in contested or communications-degraded environments, offering edge-computing capabilities and the ability to sync with central systems when reconnected. This capability will directly enhance the USSF’s ability to execute rapid, distributed logistics operations with reduced cognitive burden on Airmen and Guardians. The topic is intended to stimulate innovative research and development (R&D) toward a dual-use solution with strong applicability in both defense and commercial logistics sectors 

PHASE I: This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II. Therefore, Phase I awards will not be made for this topic and Phase I proposals will not be accepted for this topic. The applicant is required to provide detail and documentation in the Direct to Phase II (D2P2) proposal which demonstrates accomplishment of a “Phase I-type” effort, including a feasibility study. This includes determining, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical merit and feasibility of ideas appearing to have commercial potential. It must have validated the product-mission fit between the proposed solution and a potential U.S. Air Force (USAF) and/or USSF stakeholder. The applicant should have defined a clear, immediately actionable plan with the proposed solution and the U.S. Department of the Air Force (DAF) customer and end-user. The feasibility study should have: 

1. Clearly identified the potential stakeholders of the adapted solution for solving USAF and/or USSF need(s). 
2. Described the pathway to integrating with DAF operations, to include how the applicant plans to accomplish core technology development, navigate applicable regulatory processes, and integrate with other relevant systems and/or processes. 
3. Describe if and how the solution can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers. 

PHASE II: The Phase II goal is to develop and demonstrate a functional prototype system that addresses the USSF’s need to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of cargo packing and load planning for deployment and sustainment operations. The prototype should enable more rapid and accurate configuration of cargo across a range of container types and operational scenarios. It should support improved planning, activity tracking, and information flow in environments that may have limited communications or require flexibility for changing mission conditions. Phase II work is expected to include: 

- Prototype Development: build a working software prototype that supports optimized planning and configuration of cargo. The system should accommodate various data inputs and packing constraints, including space, weight, timing, and priority of items. 
- Operational Integration Context: demonstrate the prototype’s ability to support logistics personnel during cargo preparation and movement activities. This may include generating container-specific outputs, supporting real-time updates, or aligning with mission support functions such as maintenance scheduling or readiness tracking. 
- Evaluation in Relevant Environment: develop a test plan and evaluate the prototype in an operationally representative setting. Capture performance metrics such as time reduction, accuracy of packing plans, user workload reduction, or adaptability to mission constraints. 
- Transition Planning and Dual-Use Considerations: begin to define potential transition pathways, including DoD logistics operations and commercial applications. Consider compatibility with existing systems and outline next steps for operational deployment or commercial scaling. 

Deliverables for Phase II may include: 
- A functioning prototype software system; 
- A technical report describing system capabilities, interfaces, and performance results; 
- A summary of evaluation outcomes and user feedback; 
- Documentation to support transition or further development; 
- A commercialization and transition strategy aligned with potential military and commercial applications. 

Phase II will deliver a validated prototype system that enables more efficient, informed, and agile cargo packing and planning. The solution should enhance operational readiness, reduce time and error in the packing process, and support integration with broader logistics and sustainment activities. 

To facilitate the potential transition from Phase II to Phase III, a transition plan will be developed that outlines the steps necessary to ensure that the optimization solution is deployed and used effectively by government and commercial partners. The plan will include a timeline for deployment, a plan for identifying potential partners and customers, and a plan for marketing and selling the solution. The plan will also include a detailed description of the integration plan, and any necessary modifications or customizations needed to make the solution compatible with existing systems. 

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The expected Phase III effort for the RSP Optimization for Efficient Deployment SBIR topic is to transition the technology from development to full-scale production and commercialization. The developed technology has dual-use applications for both military and commercial logistics operations. Military applications include RSP deployment and other supply chain management operations, as well as maintenance and load planning actions. The technology can help the military optimize its logistics operations, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Commercial applications manufacturing, and distribution. The technology can help commercial organizations optimize their logistics operations, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. 

The expected Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at Phase III entry will be TRL 8 or 9, with a well-defined and validated software solution ready for commercialization. The technology will have been tested and validated in realistic environments, and any necessary modifications or customizations will have been made to ensure that it is compatible with existing systems and workflows. Additional information regarding transition planning includes identifying known government approvals required for deployment and any additional opportunities for deployment of the optimization solution within the government and commercial sectors. The integration plan will involve working closely with government and commercial partners to ensure that the optimization solution is integrated seamlessly into their existing systems and workflows. 

Overall, the expected Phase III effort for the ASTROPAC SBIR topic is to transition the technology from development to full-scale production and commercialization, with dual-use applications for both military and commercial logistics operations. The expected TRL at Phase III entry will be TRL 8 or 9, and the transition planning will involve working closely with government and commercial partners to ensure seamless integration into existing systems and workflows. 

REFERENCES: 

1. U.S. Space Force. (2023, March). Mission sustainment strategy. Office of the Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Operations, Cyber, and Nuclear (SF/S4O). https://www.dau.edu/sites/default/files/webform/documents/26816/2023_%20USSF%20Mission%20Sustainment%20Strategy%20efile_signatures.pdf.  
 
2. United States Space Force. (2022, December). Space Doctrine Publication 4-0: Sustainment. Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM). https://www.starcom.spaceforce.mil/Portals/2/SDP%204-0%20Sustainment%20(Signed).pdf?ver=jFc_4BiAkDjJdc49LmESgg%3D%3D.  

KEYWORDS: Readiness Spares Packages (RSP); optimization; packing time; maintenance; load planning; software solution; activity tracking; NSNs; UTC data; level 4 data; pallets; ISUs.; space; artificial intelligence; human-machine interface.

Project ASTROPAC: Intelligent Cargo Configuration and Deployment Planning for Enhanced Readiness

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