Automated Expeditionary Airfield Assembly

The DON26BZ01-NV008 project seeks to develop robotic systems for automating or augmenting the assembly of Expeditionary Airfield (EAF) matting, a task currently performed manually by Marines. This initiative aims to increase operational efficiency, reduce personnel risk, and allow Marines to focus on higher-priority missions. The robotic system must navigate autonomously, avoid obstacles, plan paths, and grasp EAF mats precisely on diverse and austere terrains while enduring harsh environmental conditions. Phase I will focus on technical feasibility, system design, and performance modeling through simulations. Phase II involves developing and demonstrating a functional prototype, followed by rigorous laboratory and field testing to refine its design and functionality. Phase III will optimize and harden the deployable robotic system for real-world scenarios, demonstrating significant reductions in manning, costs, and deployment time. The technology has dual-use applications in construction for rapid deployment of flooring and other interlocking materials, advancing robotics, computer vision, and autonomy across various domains. The project requires U.S.-owned and operated contractors with the ability to acquire and maintain secret-level facility and personnel security clearances due to potential classification in later phases and ITAR restrictions.