Runtime Assured Autonomy

The DAF26BZ01-NV008 solicitation focuses on developing Runtime Assured Autonomy (RTAA) systems for autonomous uncrewed air platforms to ensure safe and correct operation under all conditions. The Air Force requires advanced autonomy for collaborative missions, but the complexity of these systems makes full certification challenging. RTAA functions will monitor autonomy, mitigate adverse effects from design errors, and reduce the certification burden. Key RTAA functions include fault detection and isolation, which identifies errors in mission-level autonomy, and mitigation response, which activates recovery protocols. The system will operate at two levels: platform/fleet safety, monitoring for safety violations, and autonomy function performance, ensuring correct and optimal mission execution. Phase I involves feasibility studies, architectural design, and use case development for fault determination and mitigation. Phase II matures these designs, aligning with the Air Force's Autonomy-Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA) through testing in high-fidelity simulations and real-time laboratory environments. Phase III focuses on transitioning RTAA into Air Force programs, other DoD branches, and commercial applications, including urban/advanced air mobility, ground vehicles, and industrial systems, underscoring RTAA's critical role in ensuring trusted autonomy across various sectors. This technology is restricted under ITAR and EAR, requiring disclosure of foreign nationals involved.